Pirates place Russell Martin on 15-day disabled list

The Pittsburgh Pirates received more than what they were looking for after they picked up veteran catcher Russell Martin who left the New York Yankees for a team who hasn’t been to the playoffs in about 20 years.

Martin has been absolutely insane both behind the plate and in the batters box. Since joining the Pirates, Martin has hit 17 home runs, 66 RBI’s but has struck out 121 times through 500 at bats. Martin has been clutch for the Pirates and I’m sure he’ll be re-signed once his contract is up.

Now Martin returned to the Pirates lineup yesterday but suffered an injury after missing several games with a lower body injury. Word right now is that Russell Martin suffered a strained left hamstring and will be placed on the 15-day disabled list.

With Martin heading to the disabled list, the Pittsburgh Pirates have recalled catcher Tony Sanchez from Triple-A Indianapolis. Sanchez is activated and will get the go ahead to start behind the plate today against the St. Louis Cardinals.

The Pirates also called up right-handed pitcher Jared Hughes from Triple-A Indianapolis. The 28 year old reliever already appeared in just one game with the big league club this season.