The Pittsburgh Pirates have gotten off to a rough start in 2019 and we can add another hit to the list, as left fielder Corey Dickerson is injured and could be facing a lengthy absence:
Sources say Corey Dickerson is likely to miss up to a month with his strained shoulder. Is expected to go on the IL before tonight's game. #pirates #dkps #MLB
— John Perrotto (@JPerrotto) April 4, 2019
The Pirates have made the move official, putting Dickerson on the IL with a posterior right shoulder strain. The corresponding move was actually easy, as starting pitcher Jordan Lyles was already set to be activated to start Thursday's game. Instead of having to send someone to the minors, Dickerson hits the IL.
Dickerson, 29, hit .300/.330/.474 (118 OPS+) last season while winning a Gold Glove, posting a career-high 3.8 WAR. In 16 plate appearances this year, he's hit .154 with a home run. He was the Pirates' three-hole hitter in their first three games, so he's obviously an important piece for the club.
Gregory Polanco, Jose Osuna and Lonnie Chisenhall are also injured, so without Dickerson it appears the Pirates' outfield will be Melky Cabrera, Starling Marte and J.B. Shuck.
While there are more high-profile teams struggling to start the season, don't forget about the Pirates. They're 1-3 after blowing two straight games and losing both in extra innings. They also have an entire outfield on the injured list. Bear in mind the NL Central figures to be one of the tougher divisions in baseball, though a few expected contenders are struggling.
It's only been a week, but it's been a tough week in Pittsburgh.
