Perrotto: Roansy Contreras Wants to Be Known For Rare Attribute (+)

BRADENTON, Fla – It is almost easier to find a payphone than a workhorse starting pitcher.

Just eight major leaguers threw 200 innings last season. The grand total of pitchers who tossed more than one complete game was four.

The idea of pitchers going nine innings has become almost an abstract idea. Few starters are permitted to go through a lineup more than twice before managers bring on a brigade of relievers.

For better or worse, that is part of baseball in the 2020s. It is no exception with the Pittsburgh Pirates.