10 bench players who will play integral roles in MLB playoffs

Pittsburgh Pirates (95-61): Josh Harrison, Infield

Sep 24, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Josh Harrison (5) hits a double during the seventh inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. The Pirates won 5-4. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Starting third baseman Aramis Ramirez has been day-to-day with a left groin strain, which allowed Harrison to start some games at 3B. While Ramirez should be healthy and ready to go for the Pirates in the playoffs, Harrison could be seeing increased playing time if Ramirez tweaks his groin again.

Harrison will be battling with teammate Neil Walker for pinch hits and defensive replacements in the postseason, but the righty may have the edge on Walker as he has been hot lately. In Harrison’s last seven games, he has posted a .364 batting average and an .891 OPS.

His productivity sky rocketed since hitting a dramatic walk-off single against the Brewers on Sept. 13 in the 11th inning. Timely, clutch hitting will be exactly what gets Harrison into the lineup during the 2015 playoffs.

By Eddie Ravert

Chicago implant by way of Philadelphia. Former college baseball player and radio DJ. High school debate team champion. Passionate ... More about Eddie Ravert