The Pittsburgh Pirates might be leaning toward skipping James McDonald in the rotation next week, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review's Rob Biertempfel.
McDonald surrendered four earned runs on five hits and four walks in 3 2/3 innings on Friday in a loss to the Cubs. It was the second time in three September starts that McDonald failed to make it past the fourth inning.
McDonald is 12-8 in 29 starts with a 4.05 ERA and 151 strikeouts in 171 innings.
If skipped, McDonald could be replaced by Kyle McPherson, who has made seven relief appearances for the Pirates this year. Manager Clint Hurdle has indicated per Biertempfel that he would like to get McPherson a start or two this season.
McPherson has allowed two earned runs on nine hits and two walks in 11 2/3 innings while striking out 11 batters. He has a 63:9 K:BB ratio in 67 minor-league innings this season.
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