Pirates manager Clint Hurdle noticed Monday relief pitcher Mark Melancon's velocity was down a bit in his appearance, reports MLB.com. Melancon surrendered three runs on four hits in the ninth inning before finishing off the 5-4 win over the Tigers, but his pitch velocity dropped from an average of 91.8 mph last season to 88.7 mph this season.
"We're going to watch, and we're going to communicate. Concern's not a word that I'm going to use. Disappointed is not a word that I'm going to use," Pirates manager Clint Hurdle said. "I don't think we need to delve deep into emotions. I think you just need to evaluate and have conversations. I think that's one of the best ways to get things done within the clubhouse is when you have a question, you just ask it."