Pittsburgh – After analyzing the thin and overpriced starters available in trade, Ubaldo Jimenez’s fluid situation became concrete today. The Rockies prospect will start Thursday against the Washington Nationals, with Taylor Buchholz moving back into the bullpen.
Jimenez was available for long relief Tuesday and Wednesday, but was not needed after strong performances by starters Josh Fogg and Jeff Francis.
“I talked with (general manager) Dan (O’Dowd) last night and we kind of brainstormed through the decision,” manager Clint Hurdle said. “We decided it’s best to take a look at him while he’s here.”
Jimenez goes Thursday on six days’ rest, having worked seven innings in a win Friday in Colorado Springs with special assistant Walt Weiss watching. Aaron Cook will follow Friday, and Rodrigo Lopez, Thursday’s originally scheduled starter, goes Saturday on seven days’ rest.
“I know this is a big opportunity,” said Jimenez, 8-5 with a 5.85 ERA in Triple-A Colorado Springs. “I am trying to just treat it like another game and keep my focus.”
