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The Pirates announced their wild-card roster for tonight's game.
PitchersJohn Holdzkom
Jared Hughes
Bobby LaFromboise (L)
Jeff Locke (L)
Mark Melancon
Edinson Volquez (starter)
Tony Watson (L)
Justin Wilson (L)
Vance Worley
CatchersRussell Martin
Tony Sanchez
Chris Stewart
InfieldersClint Barmes
Ike Davis (L)
Josh Harrison
Jordy Mercer SS
Brent Morel
Gaby Sanchez
Neil Walker (S)
OutfieldersAndrew Lambo (L)
Starling Marte
Andrew McCutchen
Gregory Polanco (L)
Travis Snider (L)
Jose Tabata
The roster omitted right-hander John Axford, whom the Pirates claimed off waivers in August. He has allowed five runs and six walks in 11 innings since joining the Pirates. It also did not include Chase d'Arnaud, the fastest man on the bench. D'Arnaud could have served as a pinch-runner. Polanco can fill the same role but manager Clint Hurdle has substituted Polanco for Snider in the late innings as Snider deals with hamstring problems.
Hurdle opted for two starters, Worley and Locke, in addition to six true relievers. They can cover for an early exit by Volquez, or extra innings if necessary. He also took LaFromboise to give him four left-handed options from which to choose. The lefties will help him counter Brandon Belt, Joe Panik, Gregor Blanco, Travis Ishikawa and switch-hitter Pablo Sandoval, who is a much better hitter right-handed than left-handed in his career.
The Pirates can reset their roster before the National League Division Series if they advance, so Gerrit Cole and Francisco Liriano can be added at that point. Join the conversation:
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