PITTSBURGH, Pa. — Outfielder Jose Tabata was removed from the Pirates game against the Chicago Cubs at PNC Park on Sunday in the top of the sixth inning due to tightness and cramping in his left leg.
The left fielder was examined by trainers after running from first to third base on an error by the Cubs pitcher Matt Garza in the first inning. Tabata, however, remained in the game. Tabata was replaced by rookie Gorkys Hernandez in the sixth frame. Tabata went 2-for-3 on the day with a triple.
Tabata will be re-examined on Monday.
I used to be so high on Tabata until I saw how easy he gets injured. I don’t have high hopes for him long-term
Maybe it’s just a conditioning issue…
Personally, I’m more concerned with the OPS. He’s started to hit better as of late, but last year wasn’t very impressive, and it’s hard to justify a guy in a corner outfield position if he doesn’t get on base, regardless of the power.