The Pittsburgh Pirates have recalled infielder/outfielder Mark Mathias from Triple-A Indianapolis. He is replacing shortstop Oneil Cruz on the active roster. Cruz had surgery last night to repair his fractured ankle. The Pirates have said that he will be out four months. He has been placed on the 10-day Injured List.
The 28-year-old Mathias was acquired from the Texas Rangers one month ago. The Pirates gave up pitching prospect Ricky DeVito in the deal.
Mathias has played everywhere except pitcher and catcher during his college/pro career, but a large majority of his time has been spent at second base, while also seeing decent third base time over the years. The Pirates have used him at second base, third base and right field during the early part of the 2023 season
He has performed well in his big league chances at the plate, seeing time 2020 with the Milwaukee Brewers and 2022 with the Brewers and Rangers. He has a career .256/.307/.462 slash line in 46 games. He hit .333/.460/.467 in nine games with Indianapolis this year.
Cruz is going to miss four months according to the Pirates, but he was only put on the 10-day Injured List for now. The Pirates will be able to transfer him to the 60-day IL if a 40-man roster spot is needed.
