Pirates declined C Ryan Doumit's $7.25 million option for 2012. Doumit registered a .303 batting average and .830 OPS this season, but he played in only 77 games and can't be trusted to remain healthy. He's also a poor defensive catcher. Perhaps someone will give him a try at first base or DH in 2012.

Pirates general manager Neal Huntington said the organization is "comfortable" with their internal options at catcher next season. The Pirates won't pick up the club options of catchers Ryan Doumit and Chris Snyder. "Given the dollars that it would take to pick up those options, it may not be the best choice," Huntington said. The free-agent class of catchers this offseason isn't great, but the Pirates will undoubtedly scour available backstops over the winter.

The Pirates will decline Ryan Doumit's option for 2012 after the conclusion of the World Series. Doumit's buyout is $500,000 whereas his option would cost the Pirates $7.25 million in salary next season and $8.25 million in 2013. When healthy, he was one of Pittsburgh's better hitters, batting .303 with a .353 on-base percentage an .830 OPS in 77 games. The club is expected to bring back Michael McKenry, Jason Jaramillo, Matt Pagnozzi and Eric Fryer, all of whom spent time on the major league roster this year.

The Pirates are fully expected to decline Ryan Doumit's contract options for 2012 and 2013. The team-controlled options are worth a total of $15.5 million. Doumit batted .303/.353/.477 this season and has been fairly productive throughout his time with Pittsburgh, but he's struggled mightily to remain healthy and he's not a great defender. His free agency case will be an interesting one.

Ryan Doumit returned to action on Tuesday September 27.

Ryan Doumit is out of the Pirates' starting lineup again Tuesday. Doumit hasn't played since taking a foul tip off the mask during Friday's game. While he won't start Tuesday, he has not been ruled out for the rest of the series.

Ryan Doumit is out of the Pirates' starting lineup for the third straight game Monday. Doumit hasn't played since taking a foul tip off the mask during Friday's game. With only three games left in the season, there's little reason to rush him back.

Ryan Doumit returned to action on Monday September 12.

Ryan Doumit (chest) is back in the Pirates' starting lineup Monday against the Cardinals. Doumit suffered a bruise Sunday when he was struck in the chest with a James McDonald fastball. But tests came back normal Monday morning, and he's feeling improved.

Ryan Doumit left Sunday's game after being hit in the chest on passed ball in fourth inning. The Pirates haven't provided any more details, but he probably just has a bruise. Consider him day-to-day for the time being.