Pirates recall INF Figueroa, send LHP Lobstein to minors
CHICAGO (AP) The Pittsburgh Pirates have recalled utility player Cole Figueroa from Triple-A Indianapolis and optioned left-hander Kyle Lobstein to Indianapolis, reducing their bullpen to seven relievers.
Manager Clint Hurdle said before Friday's game at the Chicago Cubs that Thursday's off day coupled with a May 10 rainout prompted the move. They've been playing with only a four-man bench.
Figueroa made Pittsburgh's opening-day roster, but was sent down after going hitless in nine at-bats.
Lobstein is 2-0 with a 4.79 ERA in nine relief appearances. Hurdle says they want Lobstein to eventually make the starting rotation.