Pirates activate Josh Harrison, designate Josh Wall

The Pirates have announced that they've activated Josh Harrison (thumb) from his rehab assignment and designated Josh Wall for assignment.

The Bucs timed Harrison and Jordy Mercer's rehab assignments so that their endings roughly coincided with September roster expansions, so I thought we might see Harrison and Mercer then. Obviously, though, if Harrison is already ready, it's good to have him back. He went only 1-for-19 in his rehab assignment, but that doesn't necessarily matter; rehab stats aren't always a good barometer of whether a player is ready to contribute.

With Harrison back, the Pirates could give him back his old job as their regular third baseman. The better option, though, likely would be to get Harrison regular playing time by moving him around the field, picking up starts at third, second and the outfield.

Wall was with the Pirates only briefly and didn't make an appearance. Maybe he and Wilfredo Boscan can form some sort of support group. Anyway, Wall's DFA clears a spot on the Pirates' 40-man that they could use later to add Vance Worley, Travis Snider or Radhames Liz.