PITTSBURGH -- Jordy Mercer was not in the starting lineup for the Pirates' series finale against the Twins on Wednesday night, but he believes he avoided any sort of serious injury in Monday's home opener.
Mercer exited Pittsburgh's 5-4 win over Minnesota on Monday after jamming his right pinky finger while diving back to first base in the fourth inning. The swelling subsided between Tuesday morning and Wednesday afternoon, and Mercer was able to field ground balls and swing in the batting cage at PNC Park prior to Wednesday's game.
Sean Rodriguez started at shortstop, batting eighth against former Rays teammate Jake Odorizzi, but Mercer declared himself available off the bench and said he expects to be fully ready to play on Thursday.