Pirates Replace Mlodzinski with Burrows in Starting Rotation

The Pittsburgh Pirates have made a notable change to their starting rotation by sending right-handed pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski to Triple-A Indianapolis and recalling prospect Mike Burrows to start against the Milwaukee Brewers. Mlodzinski, who transitioned from a bullpen reliever to a starter in 2025, struggled with a 1-4 record and a 5.67 ERA in nine starts, despite showing some strong early-inning performances. Burrows, the Pirates' No. 15 prospect, has impressed in Triple-A with a 2-1 record, 2.51 ERA, and a WHIP of 1.052, outperforming higher-ranked prospect Bubba Chandler in some metrics this season. The decision to promote Burrows over Chandler is likely influenced by roster control considerations and Burrows' solid performance post-Tommy John surgery. The Pirates appear to be giving Burrows an extended opportunity to prove himself at the major league level, while Mlodzinski works to refine his skills in the minors. This shift reflects the Pirates' strategy to develop their young pitching talent amid rotation challenges.