As has been speculated, the Pirates have altered their roster in order to have it better set for a potential first round playoff matchup. The roster as of August 31 is the playoff-eligible roster.

Today the Team recalled pitcher Kyle McPherson and outfielder Alex Presley from AAA Indianapolis. They optioned Chase d'Arnaud and ourighted Jeff Clement to Bradenton. Presley is in the starting lineup batting lead off tonight.

Tomorrow the Pirates can expand the roster. I expect Jeff Locke to get called up in the next few days to take Erik Bedard's spot in the rotation. We'll see if d'Arnaud and Clement were just paper moves and are added as well. I would also expect additional bullpen help in the next 48 hours.