The Pittsburgh Pirates have placed outfielder Starling Marte on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to Aug. 19, with a right hand contusion. Andrew Lambo has been recalled to replace Marte.
In addition to a contusion, Marte suffered a sprain of the fourth MCP ligament of his right hand. It was all part of his original injury off Arizona’s Martin Prado stepping on his right hand, not a complication that developed since.
No timetable has been announced yet for Marte’s return. Because his placement was backdated, he would be eligible to return Sept. 3 at the earliest.
“We’ll have more information when he gets home and is seen by our doctors,” Pirates manager Clint Hurdle said.
Lambo was optioned to the minors less than ten days ago, but was eligible to come back early due to Marte’s DL placement. He should get starting time along with Jose Tabata while Marte is out, and the manager says Lambo could even get starts against left-handed pitchers.
“You’re not going to get much more off a challenging positive opportunity… than to be involved in a pennant race,” Hurdle said. “It’s a very good environment.”
