Pirates right-hander A.J. Burnett was diagnosed with a strained flexor tendon, FOXSports.com's Jon Morosi reported Monday afternoon. The news was "much better than it could have been," he stated.
Morosi said Burnett's right ulnar collateral ligament is intact and he will "undergo treatment in hopes of pitching again this year."
Burnett on Sunday talked about his tolerance for and willingness to endure pain, and this diagosis leaves open the door that he could return this season.
"It is difficult," Burnett said Sunday. "I'm prepared for both … if I just need some rest or something more.