--RHP Jeff Karstens threw a simulated game following Monday's home opener in an effort to stay sharp for his first start of the season, Thursday against Houston. Karstens' scheduled start Friday at Cincinnati was rained out, and he pitched in a simulated game April 4 at the Pirates' minor league spring training camp in Bradenton, Fla. The last time he pitched in real game conditions was March 31 against Minnesota in an exhibition game.

--RHP Ross Ohlendorf is scheduled to start Wednesday against Houston and had trouble with the Astros last season as a rookie, going 0-2 with 9.90 ERA in two starts. However, Ohlendorf has looked like a much different pitcher this year. He followed a strong spring with a fine first start of the season Thursday at St. Louis, allowing three runs in six innings despite taking the loss.

--LHP John Grabow's 343 relief appearances since the start of the 2004 season are the most by any National League left-hander in that span. Grabow has pitched in three of the first seven games this season, and the Pirates are hopeful they can reduce his workload along with the rest of the bullpen's with better starting pitching.

MEDICAL WATCH:

LHP Phil Dumatrait (arthroscopic right shoulder surgery in August 2008) went on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to March 27. He could be ready to join the Pirates rotation by the end of April.

ROTATION:

LHP Paul Maholm

RHP Ian Snell

LHP Zach Duke

RHP Ross Ohlendorf

RHP Jeff Karstens

BULLPEN:

RHP Matt Capps (closer)

LHP John Grabow

RHP Tyler Yates

LHP Sean Burnett

RHP Craig Hansen

RHP Jesse Chavez

LHP Donnie Veal

CATCHERS:

Ryan Doumit

Jason Jaramillo

INFIELDERS:

1B Adam LaRoche

2B Freddy Sanchez

SS Jack Wilson

3B Andy LaRoche

INF Ramon Vasquez

INF Luis Cruz

INF/OF Eric Hinske

OUTFIELDERS:

LF Nyjer Morgan

CF Nate McLouth

RF Brandon Moss

OF Craig Monroe