The Pirates will be without 1B/OF Ryan O'Hearn for 6-8 weeks, as he was placed on the 10-day injured list on Saturday with a left quad strain. In a series of corresponding moves, RHP Isaac Mattson was recalled from Triple-A Indianapolis, C/1B Rafael Flores Jr. was activated from the injured list and RHP Antwone Kelly was optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis.
O'Hearn was injured in the ninth inning of the Pirates' 8-7 loss to the Reds on Friday while running to first base. He left the field with the assistance of Pirates manager Don Kelly and a member of their training staff. He was later seen using a crutch to navigate the postgame clubhouse.
“It's really hard. I was pretty emotional about it, honestly,” infielder Nick Gonzales said postgame. “That's a big-time player on our team, but also a leader. I love that guy to death, and feel really bad for him. Feel really bad for the team for losing him and everything. But it's really unfortunate. He's one of my best friends on this team, and it's really tough to see that.”
Pittsburgh has found ways to survive multiple injuries to key players. With the Trade Deadline looming on Monday, the Pirates could look for an outside move to fill the void. Spencer Horwitz is nearing a return after a hamstring strain and concussion, and is expected to play first base when he comes back.