The Pittsburgh Pirates adjusted Oneil Cruz's rehab assignment on Tuesday, moving the All-Star center fielder from Triple-A Indianapolis to Double-A Altoona as he continues working toward a return from a fractured left hand.
Cruz is expected to suit up for the Altoona Curve against the Akron RubberDucks on Tuesday evening, with the move designed to keep him closer to Pittsburgh after Indianapolis departed on a road trip. The change allows the Pirates to continue his rehab without adding unnecessary travel as he builds toward activation.
Pittsburgh broadcaster Dan Zangrilli reported the assignment change Tuesday, noting Cruz will continue his rehab in Altoona after opening the process with Triple-A Indianapolis.
Cruz has been sidelined since June after suffering fractures to the fourth and fifth metacarpals in his left hand while sliding into home plate against the Atlanta Braves. He was placed on the injured list before eventually shifting to the 60-day IL, then began his rehab assignment on Aug. 7 after being cleared for baseball activities.
The 27-year-old appeared in two games for Indianapolis over the weekend, playing seven innings in center field in each contest while going 0-for-5 with two walks and three strikeouts as he worked to regain his timing at the plate.
Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
ALSO SEE:
- MLB Home Run Predictions Today: Best HR Prop Bets for Tuesday, Aug. 11
- NRFI and YRFI MLB Bets Today: Best First-Inning Predictions for Tuesday, Aug. 11
Before the injury, Cruz remained one of Pittsburgh's top offensive contributors. He appeared in 64 games, batting .264 with 14 home runs, 44 RBIs, 21 stolen bases and an .822 OPS.
The Pirates entered Tuesday at 58-62, fourth in the National League Central and trying to stay within reach of the Wild Card race. A healthy return from Cruz would provide a major boost to a lineup that has struggled during a recent 1-5 stretch.
Best of the Pittsburgh Pirates
- 5 Greatest Pittsburgh Pirates Hitters of All Time
- 5 Greatest Pittsburgh Pirates Pitchers of All Time
