There's a sense of uncertainty surrounding Mike Burrows' big-league future. The Pirates don't doubt his ability to contribute at the next level, it's more of a question regarding which role better suits what the major-league club needs now and in the future. 

At the moment, Burrows is viewed as a starter. Derek Shelton made that clear prior to Saturday afternoon's Grapefruit League matchup against the Braves. But while the Pirates have yet to determine the overall look of their bullpen, Burrows could at some point fit into that mix with his ability to throw multiple innings. 

“Just knowing they have the confidence in me to be a starter and stay a starter right now is huge. To still be getting starts at this point in March is really cool and gives you a little confidence," Burrows said. “We talked about (pitching out of the bullpen), too. If there’s a time and place during this year where that comes and I can help them in that way, then I’d be willing to do that.” 

Regardless, Burrows is operating as if he'll start games this season, whether it be at Class AAA Indianapolis or in the majors. He takes pride in the fact that he's still getting opportunities to start games and wants to continue to take advantage of any chances he gets, as he did in completing two innings in the Pirates' 6-5 loss to the Braves at CoolToday Park. 

“Feel good competing against these guys and getting to see that lineup," said Burrows, who also threw two innings against the Braves on Feb. 26. "I’ve faced them a couple times around and it was really cool. It’s a good day. Things didn’t go exactly the way I wanted them to, but stuff happens.” 

Burrows ended up allowing two runs on two hits with a walk and two strikeouts this time around. He threw 23 of his 43 pitches for strikes and finished off his strikeouts with his slider and changeup, two pitches that were effective on this day. 

“Pretty similar (outing). Gave up two in two innings. I’m just glad to get my ups in and get my pitches in against guys like this," Burrows said. “Just missing a little bit with my stuff, nothing major. Just working on some stuff. That’s what spring training is for.” 

Burrows allowed the two runs on a two-run double by Marcell Ozuna in the first inning. He exited with two outs in the first, sitting at 27 pitches. He then re-entered in the second and experienced more favorable results, retiring four straight batters on 16 pitches and keeping the ball either on the ground or in the air for easy fly-ball outs. 

“Just attacking guys. If you attack guys, you’re going to get outs," Burrows said. "You might give up a couple hits, but not giving freebies away (is key). I’d say the only part that got me today was the walk, and just a couple deep counts. Eliminate those and it would have been a great day.” 

Burrows missed most of the 2023 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery and is feeling healthy and ready to contribute in any way possible after appearing in 16 minor-league games -- with 15 starts -- and making his major-league debut on the final day of the regular season. Time will tell if he remains in big-league camp long term or ends up starting the year in the minors, but he seems to be an intriguing and versatile pitching option heading into 2025. 

A few other notes: 

• The Pirates finished with 15 hits, as Jared Triolo led the way with three. Bryan Reynolds and DJ Stewart had two apiece. 

• David Bednar, Colin Holderman, Tim Mayza, Ryan Borucki and Kyle Nicolas combined to throw five scoreless innings with six strikeouts. 

• Jaden Woods, the Pirates' seventh-round draft pick in 2023, blew the save and suffered the loss after having a three-run lead in the ninth. He allowed four runs (three earned) on four hits in 1/3 of an inning.