Oneil Cruz
Breakdown
Performance
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August 7, 2026
Cleared to begin rehab assignment
Cruz (hand) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Indianapolis on Friday, Alex Stumpf of MLB.com reports.
Analysis
Cruz has finally been cleared to test things out in a game setting after missing two months with a fractured left hand. The center fielder would ideally be given a handful of rehab contests to knock the rust off, but the Pirates might not have the luxury of taking things slowly as they fight for a playoff spot. Cruz slashed .264/.350/.472 with 14 home runs and 21 stolen bases in 64 games for Pittsburgh before getting hurt.
August 6, 2026
No timeline to return
General manager Ben Cherington said that there is no timeline for Cruz (hand) to return from the injured list, Colin Beazley of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Analysis
Cruz was cleared for all baseball activities July 29, seemingly paving the way for him to return from the 60-day injured list Aug. 7. However, Cherington only made a vague statement that Cruz is making progress and on track, with the hope that he returns to games soon. While it sounds like Cruz is still nearing activation, that may not occur until closer to mid-August.