The Pirates expect Hart to platoon with Pedro Alvarez at first base and serve as a right-handed bat off the bench, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

The Pirates expect Hart to platoon with Pedro Alvarez at first base and serve as a right-handed bat off the bench, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis:

Manager Clint Hurdle believes Hart's playing time -- which could also include time in the outfield -- will be closely linked to the health of his surgically-repaired knees. "I know the kid can play outfield," Hurdle said. "We've seen him play the outfield. We've also seen him post up at first base. We've seen the work he's done in the batter's box." Hart batted .203 with six homers in 68 games for the Mariners last year and battled knee problems throughout the season.