Jordy Mercer 'an option' to play 2B vs. LHPs

Pirates infielder Jordy Mercer went 3 for 4 with one RBI, two doubles, one run and one walk Thursday against the Nationals. He was in the starting lineup at second base since Neil Walker has been struggling against left-handed pitchers.

"Neil is working to get better, and he is aware of the splits," manager Clint Hurdle said, per MLB.com. "We have talked about [Mercer getting playing time at second against left-handers]. It's an option."