The struggling Pirates have removed James McDonald from their rotation.

McDonald has allowed 14 runs in his last three starts -- a total of 12 innings pitched.

He will be available out of the bullpen around midweek. McDonald is 3-5 with a 7.08 ERA in the second half, after going 9-3 with a 2.37 ERA in the first half.

"As the games count down, we've got to look to give ourselves the best shot to win a game," Clint Hurdle said. "Sometimes the realization something's been taken away, maybe that can help him -- a different kind of route, as far as focus, as far as attention."