Carmen Mlodzinski Injury News & Updates

Mlodzinski picked up a save against the Reds on Saturday, allowing one run on two hits while striking out one batter over one inning.

In a wild contest during which Pittsburgh overcame a 9-0 deficit and put up four eighth-inning runs against All-Star closer Alexis Diaz, Mlodzinski -- not usual closer David Bednar -- was called upon to hold a two-run Pirates lead in the ninth. That was likely due to Bednar pitching each of the previous two days, but regardless it was a prime opportunity for Mlodzinski to shine. Things didn't begin well for the rookie right-hander, as he gave up two straight hits to begin the frame and saw the tying run move to third base with just one out. However, Mlodzinski bounced back with an epic 11-pitch faceoff against Elly De La Cruz that ended with a punchout before getting Jonathan India to strike out to end the contest. Mlodzinski thus earned the first save of his career and made another positive impression in a strong first season during which he has posted a 2.14 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 32:16 K:BB and nine holds over 32 games spanning 33.2 innings.

The Pirates reinstated Mlodzinski from the 15-day injured list Friday.

Mlodzinski landed on the injured list Aug. 12 with a sore right elbow, and he'll now rejoin Pittsburgh's bullpen after just one rehab appearance. The 24-year-old righty threw one inning during his assignment, allowing one unearned run on two hits and a walk while striking out a batter. He's been fairly reliable out of the bullpen for Pittsburgh this year and could see more opportunities for holds during the final month of the year.

Mlodzinski (elbow) is beginning a rehab assignment Tuesday with Triple-A Indianapolis, Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Mlodzinski could be an option again for the Pirates' bullpen as early as this weekend, assuming all goes well on the farm. The 24-year-old had posted a 2.28 ERA across his first 23.2 major-league innings before landing on the injured list Aug. 12 due to right elbow soreness.

The Pirates placed Mlodzinski on the 15-day injured list Saturday with right elbow soreness, Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Mlodzinski has been one of the most reliable options out of the bullpen for Pittsburgh this season with a 2.28 ERA and 1.27 WHIP through 23.2 innings. His injury is being described as "minor," so there is a good chance the 24-year-old righty is able to return from the IL after a minimum stay.

Mlodzinski will serve as the Pirates' opening pitcher for Sunday's game in Arizona, Andrew Destin of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Rather than breaking in a new fifth starter for the final game before the All-Star break, the Pirates appear set to treat the series finale with the Diamondbacks as a bullpen day. Expect Mlodzinski to work an inning or two before turning the game over to the bullpen, with the Pirates likely to deploy a number of relievers the rest of the way. Over nine appearances with Pittsburgh spanning 10.1 innings, Mlodzinski owns a 2.61 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 8:3 K:BB.