He also struck out six and didn’t walk a single batter in the outing. The 31-year-old posted a solid 4.15 ERA in 86 2/3 innings (eight starts) for the Angels last season and could be an option in the Pirates’ rotation if Carmen Mlodzinski continues to struggle.

Fulmer logged 86 2/3 innings over 37 appearances (eight starts) for the Angels during the 2024 season, compiling a 4.15 ERA, 1.39 WHIP and an 81/40 K/BB ratio. You can simply never have enough quality pitching and Fulmer has shown the ability to pitch effectively out of the rotation and out of the bullpen at various points in his career. As a depth option on a minor league deal, it’s a nice move for the Pirates.

Fulmer was sent outright to Triple-A by the Angels on Friday and now will have a chance to sign with a new club — or return to Los Angeles if the team has interest. Fulmer showed some flashes as a starter in 2024, but not enough to suggest he’ll get a major-league deal this offseason.

Fulmer is back after missing two weeks with inflammation in his pitching elbow. The 30-year-old was having his first real taste of MLB success, and if he gets a chance to start he’d be worth streaming consideration — depending on the matchup, of course.