10 Jordy Mercer SS

Mercer (forearm) is not in the lineup Sunday against the Reds.

The veteran shortstop exited Saturday's contest prematurely after being hit on the arm by a batted ball, and it seems like the Pirates will play things safe and keep him out of the final game of the season. Unless he manages to make a pinch-hit appearance, Mercer will end the season with a .696 OPS, six homers and 39 RBI, all of which are his lowest marks since 2015. Kevin Newman will take over at shortstop for the season finale.

Mercer left Saturday's game against the Reds with forearm discomfort after being struck by a batted ball.

The injury didn't appear serious -- though he was struck by 102-mph groundball -- and Mercer's removal was described as precautionary. In fact, he remained in the game and batted twice before leaving. With the year nearly over, however, even a one-game absence would spell the end of Mercer's season.

Mercer is not in the lineup Monday against the Reds.

Mercer will head to the bench for the third time in six games as the Pirates look to ease him back into action following his return from a calf injury last week. Kevin Newman is starting at shortstop and hitting eighth in his place.

Mercer is not in the lineup Friday against the Braves.

Mercer started two straight games after returning from a calf injury Wednesday, but he won't be asked to make that three in a row. Kevin Newman will start at shortstop in his place.

Mercer (calf) went 1-for-4 with a double in his return from the disabled list Wednesday.

He matched his career high with 27 doubles and showed no problems with running due to his recent calf injury. Mercer's playing time in September will likely be somewhat curtailed, with Adeiny Hechavarria and rookie Kevin Newman stealing playing time at shortstop. Mercer does have extra incentive to put up good numbers, however, as he'll become a free agent following the season.