2010 Pitching Rotation: Lincoln won’t be in the mix?

Pitcher Brad Lincoln, the Pirates 2006 (4th overall) 1st round pick will not have a chance to earn a roster spot out of Spring training in the Pirates pitching rotation.
The reason: His MLB arbitration clock.
According to John Perrotto, a source close to situation says the Pirates won’t call up Pedro Alvarez or Brad Lincoln until June 2010 under any circumstance.
The MLB arbitration clock theory also applies to Jose Tabata who will have no chance to earn a roster spot out of spring training.
Lincoln, 24, was 6-2 with a 4.70 ERA in 12 games last season for AAA Indianapolis.
There will be a large spring training competition for at least two openings in the Pirates pitching rotation. Lincoln who will be 25 in May, won’t be in the mix, regardless of how well he pitches.