Major League Baseball, several years ago, created a "bereavement list" for players who have family members pass away, so that player can be with his family and the team can replace him on the roster during that time.

Pirates closer Joel Hanrahan is on the bereavement list:

The Pirates placed closer Joel Hanrahan on the bereavement list and recalled right-handed reliever Daniel McCutchen from Class AAA Indianapolis this afternoon.

Hanrahan will attend funeral services in Iowa for his grandmother, who died Wednesday. He is expected to rejoin the team Sunday.

Hanrahan has posted six saves so far this year after a 40-save season in 2011, although with a high ERA of 4.22 and WHIP of 1.31. Daniel McCutchen will give the Pirates a second McCutchen; he made 107 appearances for the Pirates from 2009-11 with an ERA of 4.67.

Hanrahan is expected back Sunday. In his absence, setup man Juan Cruz, who has allowed just one run in 12 innings so far this year, will likely take any save opportunities.

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