On Tuesday, a source confirmed to DKPittsburghSports.com that Josh Bell's groin injury was serious enough that the Pirates could shut him down for the rest of the season.
On Wednesday, the team's director of sports medicine Todd Tomczyk all but officially confirmed that report.
"Josh is a competitor. He wants to finish strong. He wants to add to this career year for himself," Tomczyk told reporters. "But at the same time, we as an organization, we as a medical staff, need to do what's best for Josh, both short and long term."
Bell's left groin discomfort, which he experienced running to second base Friday in Chicago, was officially classified as a strain. The official word was he is unavailable for the remainder of this series with the Mariners and most likely the weekend series in Milwaukee.
Tomczyk said he will probably have more definitive information during next week's meeting with the media. By that point, there would be five days left in the regular season.
Other news from Tomczyk:
• Starling Marte is in a similar position as Bell. Tomczyk said Marte wants to play, to the point that the medical staff is "pulling him back" so he does not push through his left wrist injury. He is continuing to test his wrist "within reason."
• Jacob Stallings (lower back) practiced today. His availability for Wednesday was not known at the time of the interview, though he was not in the starting lineup.
• Jameson Taillon (right UCL) was spotted at PNC Park. He is getting out of his post-surgical brace soon, and Tomczyk said he will start "formal physical therapy" in the coming days.
• Chad Kuhl and Edgar Santana, both recovering from Tommy John surgery, each threw a live batting practice. The Pirates' instructional league concludes near the end of September, and the goal is for them to each pitch a simulated game or two and then shut them down for the season.
• Nick Burdi will be shutdown for six to eight weeks following his follow-up procedure with Dr. Keith Meister. He is expected to have a normal offseason.
• Gregory Polanco had the second of his three scheduled platelet-rich plasma injections to combat left shoulder inflammation.
• Jason Martin (left shoulder) is regaining a full range of motion. At this time, surgery is not recommended.
