PT TOMORROW: NL Central- Locke lands rotation spot

Pittsburgh Pirates

In a bit of a surprise, Jeff Locke (LHP, PIT) landed a rotation spot this spring, meaning Vance Worley (RHP, PIT) will open the season working out of the bullpen. Manager Clint Hurdle noted that it was a very difficult decision, but that the desire to have two left-handers in the rotation was a major factor. Locke, who surrendered 10 earned runs in 13.1 innings this spring, had a 3.87 ERA and 3.91 xERA in 21 starts for the Pirates in 2014. 

Locke does a nice job of keeping the ball on the ground, as he has a 51 percent career ground ball rate. He recorded a 6.1 Dom last year, but after posting a 1.4 Ctl and averaging nearly seven innings over his first 12 starts, he struggled with a 4.8 Ctl while averaging 5.6...

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

Shane Smith's awful season hasn't improved in the minors. Plus, two top prospects at Triple-A for CLE, Javier Báez starts a rehab assignment, and a look at SP depth in KC and MIN.
Jul 23 2026 3:05am
The Angels may be trading some starting pitchers at the deadline, and George Klassen will be ready to help the team.
Jul 22 2026 3:05am
George Lombard Jr. has returned to health; could a major league call-up be next? Plus, major trade deadline implications as several AL East teams veer towards buyer or seller territory.
Jul 21 2026 3:05am
This week, we discuss the "what if" scenario for teams who will likely be sellers as we approach the trade deadline. We also check in on impending lineup changes in LA and Arizona, as well as playing time competition against RHP in San Diego.
Jul 18 2026 3:06am

Tools