Derek Shelton provided injury updates to a pair of Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitchers when speaking with the media following the team’s 5-2 loss to the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday.
Shelton said that two-time All-Star closer is dealing with a right lat tightness. Bednar has yet to appear in a spring training game this year. The injury was initially felt during his throwing program a few days ago.
Bednar has cemented himself as the Pirates’ closer and one of the top relief pitchers in baseball since joining the organization. Last season, the right-hander went 3-3 with a 2.00 ERA and was tied for the National League lead with 39 saves.
Dauri Moreta, meanwhile, exited Sunday’s game with what Shelton explained was due to his elbow. Moreta was shaking his arm after delivering an 89.9 mph fastball, well below his average velocity.
Moreta has made three appearances so far this spring and has logged 2.1 innings. The right-hander has allowed five runs on three hits (all home runs). He’s issued four walks and has struck out three batters.
While there wasn’t much was provided this early after Moreta’s injury, there should be additional information as early as Monday.
The Pittsburgh Pirates will have to monitor both situations moving forward. If either will be sidelined for the start regular season, the Pirates will have to tap into their depth and have competition for additional bullpen spots.
The Pirates are banking on their bullpen as a key strength for the 2024 season. Aroldis Chapman was signed as a free agent in the offseason while Colin Holderman, Carmen Mlodzinki and Ryan Borucki all return after impressive 2023 seasons.
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