J.A. Happ arrives, LaFromboise optioned

CINCINNATI -- J.A. Happ joined the Pirates today and was added to the active roster. The Pirates optioned lefty Bobby LaFromboise, who joined the team for about 18 hours after A.J. Burnett went on the DL, back to Class AAA Indianapolis.

“You see them building and building over the years,” Happ said of the Pirates. “You see where they're at, playing really good baseball, a lot of excitement around the club. What more can you ask for than to go to a club that's in it and playing good baseball?”

Happ will make his Pirates debut Tuesday against the Cubs. He has a 4.64 ERA in 1082/3 innings for the Mariners this season. His batting average on balls in play is .313, his Fielding Independent Pitching is 4.07 and his xFIP is 4.03, meaning that ERA might be slightly higher than he deserves, but not much.

He had a 2.30 ERA in four starts in April, but since then has a 5.42 ERA and .803 OPS.

“I'm trying to be more consistent,” Happ said. “I had a few tough outings. For me, getting a fresh start will be a good thing. I know what I'm capable of and I know I feel healthy, so I'm excited to get back out there.”

Clint Hurdle on Happ: “He's shown the ability to pitch, to get deeper in games. He's got a bunch of games he's gone six, seven innings. He's pitched in the American League, usually tougher lineups to navigate through. I believe he's got the pitches to handle both hitters, both sides of the plate. Can sink it, can spin it, change speeds. Looking for a new opportunity. We'll wait and see what he's able to do when he gets out there, but I believe this is an opportunity for him to be the best J.A. Happ he's been.”

***John Holdzkom went on the Class AAA disabled list again because of a right shoulder strain. Indianapolis first baseman Hunter Morris was demoted to Class AA Altoona.