Pirates diagnose forearm issue for Griffin, will DH only

PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin is going to be off the field, but could potentially be the designated hitter for the next few games. Griffin is dealing with a low-grade muscle strain to one of the flexors in his forearm.

Pirates Director of Sports Medicine Todd Tomczyk said he is cleared to hit, cleared to run, but hasn’t been cleared to throw.

There is no concern about a UCL or elbow issue for Griffin at this point. He had imaging done to confirm the diagnosis. They will have more tests next week.

Tomczyk said Griffin expressed ‘a couple of nights ago’ after the game that his elbow wasn’t recovering. The Pirates medical team then sent him to an expert. While Griffin thought it was his elbow, doctors confirmed it’s something in his forearm.

OF/1B Ryan O’Hearn

• Ran the bases on Friday and initial responses were positive. He’s completely asymptomatic and doing all baseball activities
• They will meet with him on Saturday and talk about the next steps but it sounds like his return is imminent

C Joey Bart

• Had a really good exam after his foot inflammation and cleared to resume all weight room activities and play light catch
• They will reassess over the next couple of days and then potentially a running and hitting progression when the team is in Houston.

Nick Gonzales

• About 95% after getting a bruise fouling a ball off his leg