Pirates Injury Updates: Kranick Reinstated; Underwood Jr Begins Rehab

Right-handed pitcher Max Kranick has been reinstated from the 10-day IL (forearm strain) and has been optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis. Right-handed pitcher Duane Underwood Jr (right hamstring strain) began his rehab assignment Friday night in Bradenton.

Kranick was placed on the 10-day IL on the 4th and originally sent on assignment to Single-A Bradenton on the 12th. Since then, the Pirates moved Kranick up to Triple-A Indianapolis on the 22nd. Kranick has made three appearances between Single-A and Triple-A. Kranick’s velocity is up to 97-99 mph, significantly higher than his average of 94.2 mph in ’21.

Underwood Jr was placed on the 10-day IL on the 9th retroactive to the 8th. Friday night, he started his climb back to the Majors with Single-A Bradenton. Underwood Jr pitched a clean one inning of work with no hits, strikeouts, or walks. If Underwood Jr follows Kranick’s path, a move to Triple-A will be imminent.