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2mo ago

Pirates Put Spencer Horwitz on 10-Day IL, Recall Jack Brannigan for MLB Debut

Horwitz’s hamstring strain creates a short-term lineup hole that will test Pittsburgh’s veteran depth and a 25-year-old prospect’s readiness.

Jun 20, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Spencer Horwitz (2) rounds the bases on a solo home run in the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • The Pirates placed first baseman/designated hitter Spencer Horwitz on the 10-day injured list with a strained left hamstring and have not set a longer-term timeline.
  • Infielder Jack Brannigan was recalled from Indianapolis and will make his major-league debut the first time he takes the field after jumping from Double-A/Triple-A.
  • Ryan O’Hearn is expected to handle first-base duties in the short term and Esmerlyn Valdez is starting in right field in the adjusted lineup.
  • Brannigan is a 2022 third-round pick who brings above-average power and a high walk rate but has struck out a lot in the minors, which scouts see as his biggest obstacle to sticking long term.
  • Horwitz has been a major offensive contributor (.295/.393/.492 across roughly 514 plate appearances), so his absence is a meaningful loss and the team will monitor Brannigan’s strikeout rate, defensive versatility, and the fact he is on the 40-man with option years remaining.