With their major-league pitching staff beset by injuries and ineffectiveness, the Pirates have decided to convert minor-league outfielder J.B. Shuck into a two-way player.



Director of player development Larry Broadway told The Athletic on Saturday that Shuck will work as a pitcher and a position player at Triple-A Indianapolis — and potentially with the Pirates.



“This is not about helping in Indianapolis,” Broadway said via email. “It’s about seeing if he can find more ways to contribute at the major-league level. The idea is to increase his value, both for this season and for the remainder of his career.”



Shuck, 31, began the season on the active roster, then was designated for assignment on May 8. Four days later, he cleared waivers and was assigned to Indy. He has not yet made a pitching appearance with Indianapolis.



“I’m trying to find any way I can get up there (to the majors) and stay up there, so...