MLB: Pirates doing background work on Bud Norris?

If the Pirates add to the starting rotation, the team would like to add a pitcher with control, team sources say.

The notable name circulating in the past couple days is Houston Astros starter Bud Norris. The Pirates were among several teams with scouts in attendance for Norris start last night vs Seattle where he was roughed up allowing 6 earned runs in 5 2/3 innings. Norris is 6-9 with a 3.91 ERA. He’s been roughed up in his last two starts, allowing 13 earned runs during that span but has been dealing with an ankle injury.

Norris, 28, makes $3 million and is under team control the 2015 season. The Pirates are uncertain whether Wandy Rodriguez will return this season and the Pirates could view Norris as a long-term replacement for A.J. Burnett who is a free agent at seasons end.