Add Jordy Mercer to the growing woes of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The shortstop is expected to sit out the next six weeks after injuring his knee on Sunday's game against last-place Milwaukee, where the Brewers swept the Pirates in their series after the All Star Break.

In a statement, the Pirates said the team placed Mercer on the 15-day disabled list as doctors try to speed up the recovery of one of their starters.

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"A combination of rest, treatment and rehabilitation are the standard course of action for this type of injury," the team said.

With Mercer out of the field, the Pirates are without their starting infielders on the left side probably until September.

Pirates manager Clint Hurdle said the next coming games would be challenging for the team as they attempt to win as many outings to make it to the playoffs. The Pirates have a 4.5-game lead in the wildcard race.

''Yeah, it's a challenge,'' he said before the Pirates' game against the Kansas City Royals on Monday.

''The beautiful thing about this game is no other team really cares. So we're going to play on, opportunities to bring next man up or put a new man in. That's what we'll continue to do," he added.

The Pirates had already sidelined starting third baseman Josh Harrison for a thumb injury. He is expected to stay in the disabled list for another month.

Taking Mercer's place in the field is Juno-ho Kang, who is expected to take over the starting shortstop spot in the meantime. Kang is hitting .275 with five homers and 30 RBI in 75 games.

On the other hand, Juno, who has been the Pirates' starting third-base man the past 23 games, will be replaced by Sean Rodriguez.

Meanwhile, Mercer was brought to Pittsburgh on Sunday night after sustaining a lower leg contusion and a MCL sprain of his left knee.

Brewers outfielder Carlos Gomez crashed into Mercer near second base as the latter tried to turn a double play. Mercer had to be carried off the field.

On social media, Mercer told his followers not to worry about him.

"Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and get well wishes! I have read all of them. Just a hump in the road. I will be back soon!" he said over Twitter.

Tagsmlb, major league baseball, Baseball, Baseball news, Pittsburgh Pirates, Milwaukee Brewers, injury, jordy mercer