Bell, Marte hope to return before season's end
PITTSBURGH -- The Pirates haven’t given up hope that they’ll see first baseman Josh Bell and center fielder Starling Marte on the field before the regular season ends. More than anything, that’s because Bell and Marte -- two of the Bucs’ best players this year -- won’t give up on
PITTSBURGH -- The Pirates haven’t given up hope that they’ll see first baseman
Pirates director of sports medicine Todd Tomczyk said on Wednesday that both players are hoping to return next week. Neither will play Wednesday or Thursday against the Mariners, and neither is likely to play this weekend in Milwaukee.
But there is still a chance that Bell (left groin strain) and/or Marte (sprained left wrist) could return during the Pirates’ final homestand beginning Tuesday against the Cubs and Reds. Bell, who is three homers shy of 40, has been sidelined since playing in Friday's game at Wrigley Field.
“Josh is a competitor. He wants to finish strong. He wants to add to this career year for himself,” Tomczyk said. “At the same time, we as an organization, we as a medical staff, need to do what’s best for Josh both short- and long-term.”
Marte has been able to serve as a pinch-runner, and it may be possible for him to play defense. But he's not started a game since Sept. 8. Marte has tried to test his wrist, within reason, by progressing from range-of-motion work to strength exercises to gripping a bat.
“Starling wants to be out there. He wants to compete,” Tomczyk said. “But what makes sense for them, both short- and long-term?”
Catcher
Trainer’s room
Tomczyk provided updates on several rehabbing players who were previously ruled out for the season.
Right-handers
Right fielder
Reliever
Outfielder
Right-hander
Awards season
• The Pittsburgh chapter of the Baseball Writers' Association of America announced its annual awards on Wednesday afternoon. Bell received the Roberto Clemente Award as the Pirates’ MVP. Left-hander
• The Pirates on Wednesday named Class A Greensboro first baseman Mason Martin their Minor League Player of the Year and right-hander James Marvel, who is currently in Pittsburgh’s six-man rotation, their Minor League Pitcher of the Year.
Adam Berry covers the Rays for MLB.com and covered the Pirates from 2015-21. Follow him on Twitter @adamdberry.