Photo provided by Matt Lynch
PITTSBURGH — The Pirates appear to have avoided a major injury after outfielder Esmerlyn Valdez was hit by a pitch on the left hand in Monday’s win over the Diamondbacks. Tests show no fracture for Valdez, who is considered day to day with a contusion.
Valdez was hit by a Merrill Kelly fastball in the fourth inning of Monday’s game. The 22-year-old was checked on by the Pirates’ medical staff and was in noticeable pain before exiting the game and getting replaced by Jared Triolo.
It’s been a stellar rookie season for Valdez, who is hitting .290/.386/.702 with 14 home runs and 36 RBIs through his first 38 games. He became one of only six MLB players with at least 14 home runs and 36 RBI through his first 37 career games after hitting a homer and driving in two runs against the Cubs on Sunday. Valdez leads all MLB rookies in July with eight home runs and 24 RBI.
The Pirates are already without several regulars from their lineup with shortstop Konnor Griffin, center fielder Oneil Cruz and first baseman Spencer Horwitz all on the injured list.
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