Pirates right-handers Max Kranick, Miguel Yajure slowed by injuries in spring training

As the Pittsburgh Pirates attempt to build a starting rotation, the progress of a pair of right-handed pitchers who made spot starts last season has been slowed by injuries that could jeopardize their Opening Day status.

Neither Miguel Yajure (lumbar spine injury) nor Max Kranick (right forearm tightness) has appeared in a Grapefruit League game this spring.

Pirates director of sports medicine Todd Tomczyk said Yajure, who made three starts last year, “feels great” and is throwing bullpen sessions without restrictions and live batting practice on a “slightly different modified progression.”

“He’s in a really good spot,” Tomczyk said.

Tomczyk said Kranick experienced tightness in his right forearm after throwing a live batting practice during the lockout. Kranick is now “completely asymptomatic,” Tomczyk said, and threw a side session Tuesday and “came out of it great.”

“The next steps are a live batting practice,” Tomczyk said. “So we’re hopeful that he continues on that current trend and to prepare for for the season.”

Tomczyk said outfielder Travis Swaggerty, the Pirates’ No. 1 pick in 2018, experienced soreness in his left shoulder during the lockout that caused the Pirates to limit his throwing progression. After missing the majority of last season after undergoing surgery on his right (non-throwing) shoulder, Swaggerty was optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis.

“As a collaborative effort, the group just wanted to make sure he was in the best position to begin throwing when he was ready,” Tomczyk said, adding that Swaggerty has no hitting restrictions. “What we learned is he just may have ramped up the long toss too quickly during the lockout. Nothing significant. We feel it’s minor at this point.”

Tomczyk also provided updates for two relievers on the 60-day injured list. Nick Mears underwent arthroscopic procedure on his right elbow in February and is gaining range of motion and strength. Tomczyk said Mears should being throwing in the next 10 to 14 days.

Blake Cederlind, who underwent Tommy John surgery last year, is beginning to throw from the bullpen mound.

“Things are are heading in the right direction,” Tomczyk said. “It’s been a long journey for Blake. No restrictions right now, and he’s progressing nicely.”