Nicasio’s strong work out of ‘pen draws praise

CINCINNATI — The Pirates signed Juan Nicasio last offseason knowing he could be either a starter or reliever. This year, they’ve learned that his future is in their bullpen.

Since moving to the bullpen full time in late June, Nicasio has a 2.81 ERA with 68 strikeouts in 48 innings. He’s held opponents to a .232 average and a .657 OPS, and he’s struck out at least one batter in a Major League-high 29 straight appearances dating back to July 2.

Nicasio has been a Swiss Army knife in relief, pitching multiple innings and defusing jams while also working in high-leverage situations. The 30-year-old is eligible for salary arbitration this offseason, and he should be a key part of Pittsburgh’s 2017 bullpen.

“He’s just a bulldog. When he gets out there, he’s going to compete,” general manager Neal Huntington said. “He wants the ball in big situations and he’s carried some huge innings for us here. … He’s in a good spot, probably in a good spot for the rest of his career to remain in the bullpen.”

After a strong spring, Nicasio struggled as a starter, going 5-5 with a 5.05 ERA in 12 outings.

“I’m pitching better in the bullpen,” Nicasio said. “Nothing’s changed in …

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