The Pittsburgh Pirates have provided an update on Nick Gonzales after he left Thursday's 7-2 loss to the Chicago Cubs. Gonzales was removed before the top of the fourth inning at PNC Park after he showed visible discomfort running the bases earlier in the game.
Tyler Callihan replaced him at third base and made his major league debut. Pittsburgh later announced that Gonzales dealt with left knee discomfort connected to the foul ball he hit off that knee during Wednesday’s 10-4 loss to Chicago.
The club labeled the move precautionary and listed Gonzales as day-to-day while the medical staff continues treatment. The injury became more noticeable during Thursday’s game in the second inning.
Gonzales limped while jogging toward first base after hitting a deep fly ball, and he was pulled from the lineup shortly afterward. Entering Thursday, the 27-year-old carried a .296 batting average with a .350 on-base percentage, nine doubles, 22 RBIs and a .694 OPS across 55 games. He also collected 55 hits in 186 at-bats while striking out only 36 times.
Gonzales has also solidified himself as the team's primary third baseman. He started 35 of the club’s first 40 games at the position and handled most of the defensive workload over the past month.
His batting average ranked among the better marks in the National League entering the series against Chicago. While his offense has driven much of his value, Gonzales has also provided steady defense at third base during an important stretch for the team. If the injury forces Gonzales to miss additional time, the team will need other players to step into bigger roles quickly.
Callihan is an option after being added to the active roster before Thursday’s game. The young infielder has made 80 starts at third base across 81 minor league games and has already logged 19 starts at the position this season for Triple-A Indianapolis. He was recalled as shortstop Konnor Griffin deals with right forearm tightness but remains available, with the Pirates expected to manage his workload carefully as he continues recovering.
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Jared Triolo could also see increased action at third base if Gonzales misses time. Triolo has a strong defensive reputation and entered Thursday with 14 defensive runs saved and 11 outs above average at third base. Pittsburgh might eventually consider recalling Nick Yorke from Triple-A as another infield option if Gonzales requires a trip to the injured list.
The Pirates continue searching for consistency in a difficult season. Thursday’s loss dropped them to 29-28 and further behind in the National League Central.
