Jordy Mercer will return to the majors after a brief paternity leave, ending Daniel McCutchen's short and not particularly sweet stint with the Pirates.

Mercer, the shortstop who has been the Pirates' starter of late, was placed on leave Monday.

Now a father, he'll return to the Pirates for their series against Milwaukee. McCutchen had only been in the majors since Tuesday, and didn't have time to record an out. Although the reliever appeared in 73 games last season and pitched decently, his first outing of the year for Pittsburgh saw him face two batters -- resulting in a walk, then a homer -- in San Diego's win Tuesday night over the Bucs.

The Pirates had turned to Clint Barmes, who has started most of the season at shortstop, in Mercer's absence. It's not clear whether they'll continue to go with Barmes or play the rookie.

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