PITTSBURGH (DA) — The Pittsburgh Pirates optioned right-hander Antwone Kelly to Triple-A Indianapolis following Sunday’s victory over the Milwaukee Brewers, ending his second brief stay in the major leagues.
Kelly pitched 2 innings in relief of Paul Skenes on Sunday, allowing 3 runs on 4 hits. It was the 22-year-old’s second MLB appearance.
The Pirates recalled Kelly and fellow Indianapolis pitcher Thomas Harrington on Friday as they sought additional bullpen help during their final series before the All-Star break. Harrington returned to Triple-A on Saturday without appearing in a game.
Kelly, ranked as Pittsburgh’s No. 7 prospect by MLB Pipeline, also spent only one day in the majors during his first call-up. He made his MLB debut June 12 and was optioned to Indianapolis the following day.
The right-hander has worked in a bulk-relief role at Triple-A this season. He is 4-5 with a 4.85 ERA across 68 2/3 innings, recording 54 strikeouts and 33 walks.
Kelly also has a 1.50 WHIP, while opponents are batting .262 against him.