Pirates manager Derek Shelton said Monday that Carmen Mlodzinski will be among the team’s five starters, per team updates, stepping up this spring.

Fantasy Impact

Mlodzinski’s 75 MLB relief or opener outings shift to a starter role with Jared Jones sidelined by an elbow injury, beating out Bubba Chandler and Thomas Harrington at Triple-A Indianapolis, behind Paul Skenes’ Opening Day nod. His workload may stay light. Fantasy managers in deeper leagues might stash him, but his limited stuff tempers 2025 value in Pittsburgh’s rotation.

Carmen Mlodzinski is working in camp to transition into being a starter.

Fantasy Impact

Mlodzinski said there were conversations about him transitioning into a starter role at the end of last season. He added that he’s still open to being used in any role, but his goal is to be a starting pitcher.

Carmen Mlodzinski will start for the Pirates in their spring training opener on Saturday against the Orioles.

Fantasy Impact

Mlodzinski posted a 3.38 ERA 40 appearances last season, including four starts as an opener. He should remain in a similar role in the Pirates bullpen.

Carmen Mlodzinski will start for the Pirates on Tuesday against the Marlins.

Fantasy Impact

Mlodzinski will open for Pittsburgh in a bullpen day. It is unclear how long he will pitch.

Carmen Mlodzinski (shoulder) is starting a rehab assignment with Triple-A Indianapolis.

Fantasy Impact

Mlodzinski has been out of action since late-July with a right shoulder strain. He will need multiple rehab games before returning from the IL.