Pirates' Francisco Cervelli: Will likely return Thursday

Cervelli has just one hit in his last 14 at-bats after celebrating the signing of his three-year, $31-million contract with a three-hit day May 18.

Analysis:

He's sat out the last two days, with backup Chris Stewart getting the nod. Manager Clint Hurdle frequently bundles two consecutive off-days for his starters, so it's likely Cervelli returns to the starting lineup Thursday afternoon. He's hitless in six career at-bats against starter Patrick Corbin, but is batting .364 in 44 at-bats during day games in 2016.