PITTSBURGH (93-7 The FAN) -- Pirates starting pitcher A.J. Burnett had successful surgery on his right orbital bone and is expected to miss 8-12 weeks.

That sets his return date sometime in late May or early June.

The Pirates have used the term "rough" to describe the timetable, meaning he could potentially return sooner or later.

Burnett will not have to wait 8-12 weeks to start throwing. The timetable describes how long until he can make his first start.

Burnett fouled a ball of his face in bunting drills Wednesday. He flew back to Pittsburgh and Thursday is was determined he had a broken right orbital bone.

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Chris Gates | Bucs Blog
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Chris.Gates@cbsradio.com