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"Cumulative effect" caused Francisco Cervelli's concussion, team and independent doctors say

Team doctors and an independent neurologist identified a cumulated effect of head trauma as the cause of the concussion that sent Francisco Cervelli to the seven-day disabled list Friday, Pirates director of sports medicine Todd Tomczyk said.

Cervelli left a June 9 game after taking a foul ball off his jaw. He took three days off before returning. After playing a full game Thursday night, Cervelli reported concussion symptoms.

“I think what’s most important here is the cognition of Francisco to recognize these new symptoms, for him not to play through these new symptoms, to make us aware of them, the doctors aware of them, to ensure his short- and long-term health,” Tomczyk said.