Russell Martin has been dealing with a hamstring issue, and his status for the Wild Card game was in question. That was until he spoke with the media today. Then there was little doubt that the star catcher would play. Martin said that he felt good enough to play, and when asked what led to that decision, his answer was as simple as can be.
“It’s the playoffs,” Martin said.
He later addressed the same question and indicated that any issues he might have, he’d be playing through them.
“It’s pretty important baseball,” Martin said. “Not that the other games weren’t. But this is for all the marbles. I can definitely go.”
The news offers some big relief for the Pirates, who were also dealing with an injury to backup Chris Stewart. Clint Hurdle said in his press conference that Stewart was good to go, and Stewart said that his wrist is feeling better.
“It’s sore, but it’s progressively gotten better every day,” Stewart said. “Even initially, probably ten minutes after it happened, it started feeling better.”
Despite the fact that Martin is expected to play, and Stewart is healthy, the Pirates will most likely carry three catchers tomorrow.
“I think it would behoove us to carry three,” Hurdle said.
The important thing is having Martin as the starter, and from the sound of things, he will be making that start tomorrow.
