"Manager John Russell said Wednesday he expected to know what the Pirates will do with Zach Duke over the remainder of the season either later in the day or today. Russell declined to discuss options or whether the decision would be based more on Duke or who might replace him in the starting rotation. "I really don't have anything to say on it because (general manager) Neal (Huntington) and I have spent a little time on it, but (pitching coach Ray Searage) has been out on the field," Russell said. "We'll talk more about it. We have a couple days."

? Brad Lincoln, who was limited in the final weeks with Triple-A Indianapolis after experiencing neck and shoulder stiffness in early August, threw an extended side session yesterday. Russell said they hope to get him in a game during the Pirates' home series against Arizona this weekend."