After Jeff Karstens’ early departure from Tuesday’s game, the Pirates have placed him on the disabled list with shoulder inflammation. Brad Lincoln will take his place on the roster. Lincoln will start against the Rockies next Tuesday.
A.J. Burnett, who started the season on the disabled list after bunting a ball off his face in Spring Training, could return soon and bump Lincoln back to Indianapolis, but he still has another rehab start planned, and he hasn’t fared well in his three rehab starts so far for Bradenton and Indianapolis.
Lincoln has been terrific so far in his two Class AAA starts, striking out nine and walking none in 12 innings. He appears likely to be a capable placeholder. He pitched 47.2 innings for the Pirates last season.
It’s unclear when Karstens will return, but shoulder injuries can be serious problems for pitchers.
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