Karstens throws seven effective innings in rehab start

Jeff Karstens (0-1, 4.50 ERA) appears to be finally on the mend after making just three starts this season. Karstens who last took the mound with the Pirates on April 17th, threw seven effective innings in a rehab assignment start tonight for Double-A Altoona. Karstens went seven innings, allowing 6 hits and 1 earned run, striking out 5 and walking 1. Karstens threw 59 strikes on 78 pitches. The Pirates remain hopeful that Karstens will come off the DL around July 1.

Surging Pirates beat Marlins 3-2

Pirates improve to 8-6 and confidence is building in the clubhouse 5th starter Jeff Karstens pitched 6 strong innings, allowing one run and three hits as the surging Pittsburgh Pirates (8-6) beat the Florida Marlins 3-2 Tuesday night at PNC Park. Karstens, the Pirates pitching staff are owners of the top ERA (3.00) in the majors after finishing with an NL-worst 5.10 ERA in 2008. “A lot of people doubted us, but we all believe in ourselves and we all believe in each other,” Karstens said. ‚ÄúEnough can’t be said for Joe Kerrigan, we’re more prepared than any team in the league.” Freddy Sanchez led the Pirates offensively with three hits on the night including a solo homerun in the

Pirates make eight cuts, Karstens chosen as fifth starter

The Pittsburgh Pirates made eight cuts this morning, demoting right-handers Denny Bautista, Chris Bootcheck and Jason Davis, infielder Andy Phillips, catcher Eric Kratz, first baseman Garrett Jones, and outfielder Jeff Salazar. The battle for the 5th starter job is also over for now. Jeff Karstens will begin the season as the team’s fifth starter. Karstens was battling right-hander Virgil Vasquez who was also optioned to Indianapolis this morning. What remains to be seen is how long Karstens will be the Pirates 5th starter. The team remains in talks with