Esmerlyn Valdez Cleared for Return After Hand Scare

Pirates rookie outfielder Esmerlyn Valdez has been cleared to return to the starting lineup for Tuesday's game against the Diamondbacks. Valdez was forced to leave Monday's victory after being struck in the left hand by a pitch. Medical testing conducted on Tuesday confirmed he avoided a fracture and is dealing only with a bruise, allowing him to rejoin the lineup immediately.