TAMPA, Fla. -- Anthony Alford, one of the bright spots for the Pirates this spring and the front runner for the starting center field job, exited Saturday's game against the Yankees after he was hit in the right arm with a pitch.
Facing Corey Kluber in the fourth inning, Alford took a 91 mph heater off the right wrist. He exited the game without protest. He was visibly upset as he left, throwing his helmet to the ground as he entered the dugout.
The Pirates are currently classifying his injury as right wrist discomfort. He is being examined by the medical staff, who will provide updates when available.
Alford underwent surgery last September on his right elbow after colliding with the center field wall in PNC Park while trying to track down a fly ball. He had a slight setback in his throwing program early in camp, but had been cleared to bat and play the field.
Once one of the top prospects with the Blue Jays, Alford has not had an extended look in the majors. While the Pirates signed Brian Goodwin and traded for Dustin Fowler in February to create competition, the belief was that it was Alford's job and roster spot to lose.
Alford had been enjoying a strong spring, going 5-for-13 with two home runs at the plate. While he has not had much playing time in the field yet, he made a terrific diving catch Thursday, signaling that he was fine health wise to play the position.
More to come.
