Shortstop Brian Bixler's torrid spring training has not carried over since he was recalled from Triple-A Indianapolis. Bixler is batting 3-for-15 (.200) in five starts.
"He's pressing," Russell said. "He needs to relax." Bixler could soon be sent back to Indy. Shortstop Jack Wilson, who's on the disabled list with a sprained finger, is taking swings in the cage and fielding grounders. Wilson hopes to face live pitching Wednesday in batting practice and is on track to return a week from today.
? Last week, the Brewers' Ryan Braun called out Pirates righty Jeff Karstens after being hit by a pitch during at game at Miller Park. Karstens is appealing his fine from MLB. Pirates manager John Russell did not expect the bad blood to spill over into last night's game.
"We don't want to make a big issue out of it," Russell said. "I would think that it should be over."
? Latin American scouting director Rene Gayo said the swine flu crisis has affected some of the Pirates' scouting trips.
? Relief pitcher Evan Meek was rested last night after throwing three innings Sunday against Cincinnati.
Digits
.345 ??Bixler's batting average in 25 spring training games.
.327 ? Bixler's batting average in 14 games with Indianapolis.
