The Pirates are switching up shortstops, among other moves made Thursday afternoon.
Jordy Mercer, slowed for a while now by a strained left calf, was placed on the 10-day disabled list. In response, the team selected the contract of Kevin Newman, one of their top prospects, from Class AAA Indianapolis, thus adding him to both the 25-man and 40-man rosters.
Also, left fielder Jordan Luplow was recalled from Indianapolis, catcher Jacob Stallings was optioned back to Indianapolis, and pitcher Casey Sadler was designated for assignment. Stallings was moved to clear space on the 25-man, and the Sadler move cleared space on the 40-man, the latter of which is full.
Newman, 25, was the Pirates' first-round draft pick in 2015, 19th overall. In 109 games with Indianapolis this season, he batted .302/.350/.407 with four home runs, 30 doubles, two triples, 35 RBIs and 28 steals. That includes a 15-for-41 tear in his final 10 games with the Indians.
Our Lance Lysowski traveled to Columbus in late June to document Newman's breakout season.
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