Worth noting

• In his Monday night gem, Gerrit Cole was the first Pittsburgh rookie in 30 years to not allow a run while striking out at least nine batters. The last to do it was Jose DeLeon, who fanned 13 in a two-hit shutout of the Reds on Aug. 20, 1983.

• The Bucs have allowed no more than four hits in 11 of their 16 shutouts -- a club live-ball era (post-1916) record, topping the 10 in 1965.

• Justin Morneau sat out his first start since being dealt to the Pirates on Aug. 31. Texas' left-handed starter (Martin Perez ) was one reason. Another could have been Morneau's 1-for-16 slump.

• The "first step" of getting Marte (bruised right hand) back in the flow was his pinch-running appearance Monday night. His defensive return could soon follow, as Marte can "throw with distance and accuracy," Hurdle said.

The bat work is a slower process. Marte did take some early batting practice Tuesday, and later took some swings in the indoor cage.