Bobby Nightengale

CHICAGO – Simeon Woods Richardson was bumped out of the Twins' starting rotation two weeks ago because of ineffectiveness, and his one-day return Thursday didn't look any better.

Travis Adams was optioned to the minors, Cody Laweryson was activated and Kody Funderburk was called up from St. Paul.

Derek Shelton and Twins outfielders credit Sizemore with their defensive improvements this season.

The Twins couldn't get to the Pirates bullpen, while Pittsburgh finally got to theirs in the ninth inning.

Woods Richardson was designated for assignment Saturday after he posted a 0-7 record and 7.74 ERA in 47⅔ innings this season.

Minnesota Twins pitcher Simeon Woods Richardson was designated for assignment Saturday after he posted a 0-7 record and a 7.74 ERA in 47⅔ innings this season.

The Twins rallied from a six-run deficit to tie the score, but they couldn't recover after falling behind a second time in what was a rough outing for Bailey Ober.

Shelton was fired by the Pirates last May after guiding the club for five-plus seasons. “Everything happens for a reason and I'm where I should be,” he said.

Minnesota Twins manager Derek Shelton was fired by the Pittsburgh Pirates last May after guiding the club for five-plus seasons. “Everything happens for a reason and I’m where I should be,” he said.

The Twins starting rotation took another hit as the righthander was put on the 15-day injured list because of right elbow inflammation.