Pirates' Starling Marte: Will not return this season

Marte (back) has been ruled out for the Cardinals series this weekend, which has effectively ended his season, Bill Brink of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis:

Marte has started just one game since Sep. 5, as he has dealt with back spams. He returned in a pinch hitting role Sep. 27, but has been ultimately been ruled out for the season. The Pirates are likely exercising caution with their veteran outfielder in order to avoid him unnecessarily worsening the injury, as they have been eliminated from postseason contention.