Pirates GM Neal Huntington confirmed Monday that Niese will open the season in Pittsburgh's starting rotation, Travis Sawchik of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.

EDGE Analysis

Niese has allowed eight earned runs in five Grapefruit League innings. The lefty will likely slot third or fourth in the rotation, though he's likely the third starter right now. Niese spent the previous eight seasons with the Mets, it wouldn't be surprising to see him get off to a good start while trying to impress a new organization, even though his two spring starts have been disappointing.