After suffering a concussion on May 28 while being struck on a back swing behind the plate, things appear to be looking good regarding Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Joey Bart’s return from the seven-day injured list.
The 28-year-old backstop was recently cleared to begin a rehab assignment after his concussion symptoms improved, and is currently batting .231, with three hits, and two RBI during five games with Triple-A Indianapolis. A return to the lineup could soon follow, according to Pirates’ assistant general manager Steve Sanders.
Making an appearance on 93.7 The Fan, Sanders provided an update on Bart on Sunday.
“He’s doing really well,” offered Sanders. “He’s progressing well. He caught nine innings (Saturday), he’s scheduled to catch (again on Sunday), so we’ll re-evaluate after the game today and see where he’s at. But believe he’s getting close. He’s gotten some good at-bats, some time behind the plate and we’re certainly excited to get him back in the lineup here at the big-league level as soon as he’s ready.”
Bart was batting .240 with 35 hits, one home run, and 11 RBI in 146 plate appearances before being placed on the injured list last month. With Henry Davis and Brett Sullivan currently handling catching duties, and Endy Rodriguez’s timetable to return unclear after being placed on the 60-day IL with elbow inflammation, Bart’s return will certainly have a positive impact on the team’s lineup and pitching staff.
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The Pirates will begin a three-game series on Tuesday on the road against the Detroit Tigers. Bailey Falter (5-3) and Casey Mize (6-2) will toe the rubber in the series opener.
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