Pirates Share Oneil Cruz Decision Amid Rehab Assignment

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Pirates Share Oneil Cruz Decision Amid Rehab Assignment

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Aug 11, 2026 2:22 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Pirates adjusted Oneil Cruz's rehab assignment on Tuesday, moving the All-Star center fielder from Triple-A Indianapolis to Double-A Altoona as he continues working toward a return from a fractured left hand.

Cruz is expected to suit up for the Altoona Curve against the Akron RubberDucks on Tuesday evening, with the move designed to keep him closer to Pittsburgh after Indianapolis departed on a road trip. The change allows the Pirates to continue his rehab without adding unnecessary travel as he builds toward activation.

Pittsburgh broadcaster Dan Zangrilli reported the assignment change Tuesday, noting Cruz will continue his rehab in Altoona after opening the process with Triple-A Indianapolis.

From the Pirates -

Oneil Cruz’s rehab assignment is expected to continue this evening, now with Altoona. The Curve plays at 6 p.m. vs. Akron. Cruz previously appeared in two weekend games with Indianapolis.
— Dan Zangrilli (@DanZangrilli) August 11, 2026

Cruz has been sidelined since June after suffering fractures to the fourth and fifth metacarpals in his left hand while sliding into home plate against the Atlanta Braves. He was placed on the injured list before eventually shifting to the 60-day IL, then began his rehab assignment on Aug. 7 after being cleared for baseball activities.

The 27-year-old appeared in two games for Indianapolis over the weekend, playing seven innings in center field in each contest while going 0-for-5 with two walks and three strikeouts as he worked to regain his timing at the plate.