Pirates Injury Update: Endy Rodríguez scratch, Oneil Cruz rehab assignment, Mitch Keller

Endy Rodríguez was a late scratch from the Pittsburgh's Pirates’ lineup Saturday against the New York Mets due to left hip discomfort, raising concern because it is the same issue that landed him on the injured list last month.

Rodríguez was also out of the lineup Friday, though that initially appeared to be nothing more than a routine day off. For now, Henry Davis will start behind the plate and bat ninth in Rodríguez’s absence.

The Pirates’ medical staff is still evaluating Rodríguez to determine whether he will require another stint on the IL. If he does, Rafael Flores Jr. is already on the active roster and could split catching duties with Davis. This would allow the Pirates to use the open roster spot on another position player, with Tyler Callihan and Billy Cook among the most logical candidates for a promotion.

Oneil Cruz walks twice in first rehab game with Triple-A Indianapolis

Oneil Cruz appears to be closing in on a return to the Pirates after missing nearly two months with multiple non-displaced fractures in his left hand.

Cruz returned to game action Friday, logging seven innings in center field in his first competitive appearance since landing on the injured list in early June. Getting him back on the field represents an important step, though the Pirates will likely want him to get a couple more tune-up games under his belt before activating him.

After such a lengthy absence, Cruz will need some time to regain his timing at the plate and get fully comfortable in the field. Still, his return to game action suggests the finish line is finally approaching after weeks of uncertainty surrounding his recovery.

Barring a setback during his remaining rehab work, there is a strong possibility Cruz could rejoin the Pirates at some point next week.

Mitch Keller opens up about season-ending shoulder injury

Mitch Keller’s disappointing 2026 season is officially over after the Pirates placed the veteran right-hander on the 60-day injured list with a right arm teres major muscle injury.

Keller spoke to the media Saturday and explained that he suffered the injury during Sunday’s start against the Reds, when his arm progressively tightened before he was removed without recording an out in the third inning. He said he hadn't experienced any unusual discomfort leading up to the outing beyond the typical wear and tear of a season.

The injury is notable because it's Keller’s first arm-related issue in 12 years. He is expected to refrain from throwing for approximately eight weeks, allowing Pittsburgh to take a cautious approach with his recovery during the offseason.

Keller finishes the season 6-8 with a 5.29 ERA across 22 starts. He will now turn his attention toward getting healthy and preparing for the 2027 season.

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