The Pirates lost another player to the injured list yesterday, and their offense lost its way against the Braves, spoiling a perfect effort by Jared Jones.
Here’s Greg Brown.
Manager Donnie Kelly says he was never tempted to let Jones in after six innings, even with a perfect game going, because it is so soon after his return from elbow surgery.
Jones kiddingly avoided Kelly’s handshake after the sixth inning, knowing it meant he was being pulled from the game, but he said he understands why it was done.
The Pirates put catcher Endy Rodriguez on the ten-day injured list with a strained left glute, suffered Sunday while batting in Washington. Catcher Rafael Flores Jr. was recalled from Indianapolis to replace Rodriguez.
Before the game, Kelly and general manager Ben Cherington held another media session, with Cherington saying the rash of injuries the Pirates have suffered this year will not change his approach to the trade market. He said he is focused on improving this year’s team, not pointing to next season. The Bucs are missing four injured regulars, Rodriguez, Konnor Griffin, Spencer Horwitz, and Oneil Cruz, plus pitcher Wilbur Dotel.
