John Perrotto reports, Outfielder Andrew McCutchen and infielder Brian Bixler, two of the top performers for the Pirates in spring training, were both sent to the minor leagues Monday.
Bixler was optioned to Class AAA Indianapolis and McCutchen was reassigned to the minor-league camp. McCutchen will also start the season at Indianapolis, where he spent last year.
Bixler hit .345 (20-for-58) with two doubles and three triples in exhibition games while McCutchen hit 21-for-66 (.318) with six doubles, two triples and two home runs.