Pirates sent RHP Kevin Hart outright to Triple-A Indianapolis. Hart, 28, hasn't thrown a pitch in the big leagues since 2009 due to multiple shoulder surgeries. He can opt for free agency.

Kevin Hart underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right shoulder Tuesday. Hart hasn't thrown a professional pitch since undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum last May. The 28-year-old right-hander is expected to be ready for spring training next season, though the Pirates likely aren't counting on him.

Kevin Hart (shoulder) was told by Dr. James Andrews to stop throwing for a month and focus on strengthening his arm. Hart is currently working his way back from May 2010 shoulder surgery. He was recently pitching in extended spring training, but the Pirates weren't encouraged by his progress. The 28-year-old right-hander hasn't pitched in the majors since September of 2009.

Kevin Hart will visit Dr. James Andrews this week to try to find out why he's not progressing in his throwing program as expected. Hart, who is coming back from right shoulder surgery, has been pitching in extended spring training games but has yet to rebuild his arm strength. The Pirates had expected him to begin pitching competitively sometime in June, but that appears to be out the window. We'll know more about his status after his visit with Dr. Andrews.