What's Happening?
The Pittsburgh Pirates have decided to bench Jack Suwinski for their upcoming game against the St. Louis Cardinals. Suwinski had been a regular starter in recent games, participating in six of the Pirates' last seven matchups. This change comes as center fielder Oneil Cruz returns from the injured list, prompting a shift in the team's lineup strategy. Despite Suwinski's move to the bench, he is expected to continue playing a role as a fourth outfielder, especially as the Pirates plan to give more rest days to veterans Andrew McCutchen and Tommy Pham. This strategic adjustment is part of the team's approach as they head into the final month of the season.
Why It's Important?
The decision to bench Jack Suwinski reflects the Pittsburgh Pirates' efforts to optimize their lineup as they approach the end of the season. With Oneil Cruz back in action, the team is looking to balance the playing time among its outfielders, ensuring that key players remain fresh for critical games. This move could impact the Pirates' performance, as they aim to maintain their recent offensive momentum, having scored 32 runs over a five-game span. The strategy of rotating players like Suwinski, McCutchen, and Pham could be crucial in managing player fatigue and maximizing the team's chances in upcoming games.
What's Next?
As the Pirates continue their series against the Cardinals, they will start Carmen Mlodzinski in the next game, while the Cardinals will counter with Sonny Gray. The Pirates' lineup adjustments, including Suwinski's role as a fourth outfielder, will be closely watched to see how they affect the team's performance. The management of player rotations and rest days will be key as the Pirates aim to finish the season strong and potentially improve their standings.
