In news that will not likely come as a surprise to anyone the Pittsburgh Pirates designated starter Jonathan Sanchez for assignment the team annouced. Sanchez has allowed 18 runs in 13 2/3 innings in 2013 and was suspended by Major League Baseball for six games for hitting Allen Craig with the pitch in the first inning of a game with the St. Louis Cardinals. He appealed and had a hearing set for Friday.
Right-hander Bryan Morris was recalled to fill the roster spot. Morris had five saves in five appearances with Class AAA Indianapolis, posting a 1.42 ERA. He made one appearance for the Pirates earlier this year, pitching three scoreless inning.
Wandy Rodriguez is returning from a hamstring problem and will take Sanchez’s rotation spot. Additionally the Pirates have left-hander Francisco Liriano in rehab, working his way back from a broken arm. Pittsburgh has been very patient with Sanchez who since last season has pitched two and 8.73 ERA over 78 1/3 innings with three different teams, naming him the number four starter out of spring training, but his performance hastened his departure.
