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Cubs keep Kris Bryant out of lineup for second straight day

CHICAGO -- Cubs slugger Kris Bryant is out of the starting lineup for a second straight day with a bruised left wrist.

Bryant was hit by a pitch from the Pittsburgh Pirates' Chris Archer on Tuesday. Chicago manager Joe Maddon said Bryant could be available as a pinch hitter Thursday night and as a starter Friday against the St. Louis Cardinals.

The 2016 National League MVP has had two stints on the disabled list this season because of left shoulder inflammation. Bryant, 26, is batting .276 with 12 homers and 49 RBIs in 98 games.

David Bote started at third for the Cubs on Thursday.