Pedro Alvarez went 2-for-4 with a two-run homer in Friday's 5-4 win over the Astros.
Jeanmar Gomez was touched up for four runs (three earned) in 4 2/3 innings Friday in a no-decision against the Astros.
Pirates recalled RHP Jared Hughes from Triple-A Indianapolis.
Pirates placed RHP Jose Contreras on the bereavement list.
Jeanmar Gomez's left calf is no longer an issue.
Chase d'Arnaud (thumb) began a rehab assignment with High-A Bradenton on Thursday.
Travis Snider went 3-for-5 and finally hit his first homer of the season Thursday in the Pirates' 7-1 defeat of the Brewers.
Francisco Liriano improved to 2-0 after limiting the Brewers to one run in 5 2/3 innings on Thursday.
James McDonald (shoulder) could throw off a mound next Tuesday.
Pirates manager Clint Hurdle said that Jason Grilli is unavailable for Thursday's game against the Brewers.
Jeff Karstens (shoulder) will make his next rehab start Saturday with Double-A Altoona.
Pirates manager Clint Hurdle said Thursday that Charlie Morton (elbow, shoulder) will make three more minor league rehab starts.
Wandy Rodriguez spun seven innings of one-run ball in Wednesday's 3-1 win over the Brewers.
Neil Walker drove in two runs with a single in Wednesday's win over the Brewers.
Pirates recalled INF Jordy Mercer from Triple-A Indianapolis.