DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL Central—PIT, MIL rotations take shape

Pittsburgh Pirates

The PIT rotation took on some clarity as Jonathan Sanchez (LHP, PIT) was named the fourth starter and Jeff Locke (LHP, PIT) was awarded the fifth position. Sanchez won the job with a mediocre spring, in which he allowed 11 ER in 18 IP. He fanned 16 but issued a staff high 11 walks. Control has been an issue for Sanchez throughout his career, including a horrendous 7.4 Ctl in 2012. Locke allowed 11 earned runs in 21.1 IP and struck out 12 with eight walks. The Pirates hope that neither will be in the rotation long. Francisco Liriano (LHP, PIT) is recovering from a broken non-pitching arm and should be ready by the end of April. The prognosis for Jeff Karstens (RHP, PIT) is currently more hazy. Karstens was placed on...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Opportunities abound for young interesting players in the National League Central.
Mar 27 2026 3:05am
Following up on our spring training questions, including what happens to the rest of the lineup if Kevin McGonigle makes it onto the Tigers' roster?
Mar 26 2026 3:08am
Before spring training began, we asked about each team's playing time. Here are the answers for the AL West as spring training comes to an end.
Mar 25 2026 3:05am
Coby Mayo's spring surge has him well-positioned to be the beneficiary of Baltimore's infield injuries. Plus, more spring training topics revisited as Opening Day nears.
Mar 24 2026 3:06am
No need for a Magic 8 Ball—we've got your answers right here. SP in ATL; RF in MIA & PHI; SS at NYM; 1B in WAS; more.
Mar 23 2026 7:38am

Tools