In a bold move to secure a starting role, Pirates pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski is turning the tables on his own career trajectory. With a starter's arsenal and a reliever's success, Mlodzinski is determined to crack the rotation, but can he defy the odds?
The 27-year-old right-hander, known for his intellect on the mound, finds himself in a peculiar situation. Despite possessing a seven-pitch repertoire, including a promising sinker, four-seamer, splitter, and curveball, his career stats suggest he's been more dominant as a reliever. But here's the twist: Mlodzinski is aiming to start the season in the rotation by drawing from his impressive relief performances in the previous year's final stretch.
Mlodzinski's confidence stems from his stellar finish in 2023, where he posted a remarkable 1.89 ERA over 47 2/3 innings in his last 20 appearances, including three starts. This late-season surge provided him with a blueprint for success, and he's eager to replicate it from the get-go. The secret? Trusting the pitches that served him well, especially his sinker, four-seamer, and signature splitter-curveball combo.
But there's a catch. Mlodzinski's major league journey hasn't been without its hurdles. His rookie season in June 2023 showcased his potential with a 3.24 ERA and a .226 batting average against. However, the following May, his numbers took a nosedive, with a 9.39 ERA and a .333 batting average. And as a starter in March and April of last year, he struggled, posting a 6.58 ERA in six starts.
Mlodzinski identified a recurring issue: he tends to falter the second and third times through the batting order. This realization sparked a quest for improvement. He acknowledges the rarity of immediate dominance, yet he draws inspiration from fellow pitcher Paul Skenes, the 2025 National League Cy Young winner. Mlodzinski embraces failure as a learning opportunity, turning each setback into a positive.
With Skenes, Mitch Keller, and Bubba Chandler forming a formidable core, Mlodzinski faces stiff competition for a spot in the Opening Day rotation. He made a strong case in spring training, striking out three of four batters in two scoreless innings against the Boston Red Sox. But will it be enough?
Last season's slow start led to Mlodzinski's demotion to Triple-A Indianapolis. However, he bounced back, dominating in relief upon his return. Pirates manager Don Kelly praises Mlodzinski's adaptability, noting his success in both roles.
The key to Mlodzinski's success as a starter lies in maintaining pitch velocity and movement throughout the game. Kelly seeks assurance that Mlodzinski can navigate the opposing order multiple times effectively. Mlodzinski embraces the challenge, aiming for the ultimate versatility: excelling as both a starter and a reliever.
Mlodzinski's ambition is clear: to be a big league starter, the pinnacle of pitching roles. He believes this is the best path to personal growth and team success. But is this a realistic goal? Can Mlodzinski truly defy his career trends and secure a starting spot? The stage is set for a fascinating season, and the baseball world awaits the outcome.
What do you think? Is Mlodzinski destined for the rotation, or is his true calling in the bullpen? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments!
