We never want to see a player get hurt, at any point in the season.
Injuries, however, are a part of this game and something that needs to be taken into account. They best way to prepare for a player missing time with an injury is to have depth in your minor league system capable of plugging in and replacing them.
It was a point of emphasis this offseason for the Pirates to better prepare for the potential rigors of an 162-games season, and something they did quite well.
While the hope is to stay healthy as long as possible, the Pirates have taken a couple of bumps over the last few days at key positions. One doesn’t seem too serious, while the other we will have to await word on.
Andrew McCutchen was hit with a pitch (although it wasn’t called that way) and immediately left the game, being replaced by Henry Davis. McCutchen was seen walking off the field in between innings with no clear indication of anything that may be of concern.
Andrew McCutchen was removed from today's game due to left-hand discomfort after being hit by a thrown pitch.
He is currently being evaluated and treated by the medical staff.
— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) March 5, 2023
While McCutchen is expected to play a big part in the team’s lineup this year, the Pirates were already working around a pretty crowded outfield picture, so even if he was to miss some time, there’d be plenty of options to pick from.
On the other hand, anytime a pitcher leaves a game with ‘tightness’ in his throwing arm, especially in spring, it can be worrisome. Jarlin Garcia was hit hard in his relief appearance before leaving the game, allowing four hits with an exit velocity of 100 mph+ in a row.
Jarlín García was removed from today's game with left arm tightness, per the Pirates. He is currently being evaluated.
— Justice delos Santos (@justdelossantos) March 4, 2023
Garcia missing any time would be significant, as he is one of two left-handed relievers on the 40-man. The other, Jose Hernandez, is a Rule 5 pick who hasn’t pitched above Double-A.
The Pirates have several left-handed non-roster relievers in camp right now, with a wide array of skills and experience. Making that a focus in the offseason, should lighten the blow a bit if Garcia an extended period of time.
JT Brubaker Strong In Start Two
The righty gave up a hit to the first batter he faced on Sunday, but got the next nine batters out — four by strikeout.
One of the goals for Brubaker this season was to throw the changeup more, and while he only threw it twice on Sunday, getting a swing and miss from it should help the confidence in blending it in with the rest of his pitches.
The slider picked up seven whiffs on 11 total swings (64%), with Brubaker picked up 12 swings and misses on the day.
Pirates Prospects Daily
By Tim Williams
**In his latest Pirates Business feature, Ethan Hullihen takes a look at MLB’s Economic Reform Committee.
Spring Training Recap: Pirates 5, Twins 2
Pirates DVR: Tsung-Che Cheng And Chris Owings Home Run, More Draft Prospects
**Missed yesterday? Anthony wrote about Cody Bolton’s move to the bullpen.
Song of the Day
TODAY’S LINEUP
Pirates are on the road against the New York Yankees tonight, with a 6:35 PM start time
Ortiz on the mound in Tampa.#LetsGoBucs pic.twitter.com/wzXPUteOuo
— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) March 6, 2023
