As of today, Andrew McCutchen and Neil Walker will be one step away.

The Pirates' top two prospects -- plus reliever Dave Davidson -- will be promoted today from Class AA Altoona to Class AAA Indianapolis and will make their debut with the Indians tonight in Durham, N.C.

McCutchen, a 20-year-old center fielder, got off to a dismal start with Altoona, but a recent surge lifted his average to .258 with 10 home runs, 20 doubles, 48 RBIs and 17 steals.

Walker, a 21-year-old who converted from catcher to third baseman this year, was at .288 with 13 home runs and 66 RBIs. Although he has drawn praise from management for his defensive adjustment, he made a team-high 25 errors at his new position.

Davidson, a 23-year-old left-hander added to the 40-man roster last winter, had a 4.22 ERA, 55 strikeouts and 30 walks in 39 relief appearances.

With only two weeks left in Indianapolis' regular season, the move would appear aimed at making those players a September call-up for the Pirates. But early indications are that is unlikely for all three.