PITTSBURGH — The unfamiliar face of Corey Hart was seen in the Pirates’ clubhouse this afternoon, the first time since he was shut down in late July with recurring knee problems. According to Clint Hurdle, Hart is going to give it one more shot at regaining his health and joining the team when the rosters expand in September. The plan for Hart is to work out with the team for a few days, and begin another rehab stint in Triple-A Indianapolis on August 20th.
Hart has not appeared in a game since June 21st, when a left-shoulder injury forced him to the disabled list. He was on his way back to joining the Pirates in early July, but was shut down when his chronic knee problems resurfaced.
Any level of contribution from Hart the rest of this season would be a surprise.
Harrison & Mercer Updates
Jordy Mercer (knee) and Josh Harrison (thumb) continue to progress in their rehab stints with Indianapolis. Both played back-to-back games over the weekend with no issues. They will sit out of Indianapolis’ game tonight, as Ryan Palencer reported yesterday, however both will be put through extensive workout days, which will include hitting off of the slider pitching machine as well as infield drills.
Hurdle anticipates that both Mercer and Harrison will make their returns to the lineup before September 1st.
