Skip to content

Pirates' Josh Harrison could miss 6 weeks with thumb injury

Charles LeClaire / USA TODAY Sports / Reuters

The Pittsburgh Pirates were delivered a major blow Monday as they attempt to keep pace with the division-leading St. Louis Cardinals.

Josh Harrison, who earned the first All-Star selection of his career last season, is expected to miss the next six weeks after tearing ligaments in his thumb during Sunday's finale against the Cleveland Indians, according to Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune.

The 27-year-old apparently suffered the injury during an awkward slide into second base, but told reporters prior to Monday's opener against the San Diego Padres that there has been no specific diagnosis or timeline provided for his injury. He's expected to receive a second opinion once the swelling in his hand dissipates.

The Pirates, meanwhile, placed Harrison on the 15-day disabled list with a thumb injury and announced Travis Ishikawa will assume his spot on the 25-man roster.

Harrison emerged as an important piece during the Pirates' playoff run last season, posting an .837 OPS with 38 doubles and 18 steals in 143 games. He's struggled to rediscover that form at the plate this year, managing a .279/.313/.384 slash with four homers and 20 doubles.

Pittsburgh entered Monday six back of the Cardinals in the National League Central, while maintaining a 2 1/2-game lead for the wild card.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox