Worth noting

• Jeff Locke and McDonald started the Pirates' split-squad games on Friday, and since Locke will pitch on Wednesday, J-Mac will face the Rays on five days' rest on Thursday at McKechnie Field.

• Russell Martin (sore right shoulder) continues his throwing program with good results, and he has been penciled in for his catching debut on Saturday, when the Pirates will host the Twins. Martin could be ready a little sooner, but the Bucs would be hesitant to catch him in a night game, which Friday's home date against the Orioles will be.

• Cole giggled sincerely when asked to recall his personal best for consecutive strikeouts.

"Oh, I don't keep track of stuff like that," Cole said.