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Sunday, July 28, 2013

BREAKING NEWS: Padres, Phillies Agree to Trade

Posted on July 28, 2013 at 07:35 PM.

(2)

The San Diego Padres and Philadelphia Phillies have agreed to a trade, sending SS Jimmy Rollins to the Padres, and SS Everth Cabrera, SP Max Fried, and C Austin Hedges to the Phillies.

BREAKING NEWS: Dodgers, Phillies Agree to Trade

Posted on July 28, 2013 at 07:13 PM.

(0)

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies have agreed to a trade, sending C Carlos Ruiz to the Dodgers, and C A.J. Ellis, SP Zach Lee, and 1B Corey Seager to the Phillies.

Regular Season Game #103: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Miami Marlins

Posted on July 28, 2013 at 05:04 PM.

(0)

July 27, 2013
3:05PM

Marlins Park - Miami, FL
Weather: 96�, Cloudy
Attendance: 5,600

Game #103: Pittsburgh Pirates at Miami Marlins
Jul 27, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (61-42)	0	1	3	0	0	0	0	0	0	4	12	0
Florida (32-71)	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	1	0
W: James McDonald (11-5) L: Jeff Karstens (1-3) S: N/A

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: G. Jones (16), J. McDonald (1) HR: A. McCutchen (30), R. Martin (16) RBI: A. McCutchen 2 (56), R. Martin (38), S. Marte (22) GIDP: N. Walker
BASERUNNING SB: S. Marte (20) CS: A. McCutchen (10)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. McDonald (W, 11-5)	9.0	1	1	1	2	7	1.56
TOTALS	9.0	1	1	1	2	7

Miami Marlins
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING HR: G. Stanton (16) RBI: G. Stanton (48)

Miami Marlins
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. Karstens (L, 1-3)	4.0	10	4	4	0	3	5.54
J. Maine	2.0	1	0	0	0	4	4.07
W. Lopez	2.0	1	0	0	0	0	2.88
J. Rauch	1.0	0	0	0	0	3	3.58
TOTALS	9.0	12	4	4	0	10

McDonald Throws One Hit Gem in 4-1 Route of Marlins

MIAMI - The Pittsburgh Pirates probably over estimated the lowly Marlins, as they were welcomed to two year old Marlins Park for a three game weekend series. Game one featured a pitching showcase, as the Pirates relied on a 4th inning solo blast from Pedro Alvarez to carry them to a 1-0 lead. Game two would feature former Pirate Jeff Karstens taking the mound, to oppose James McDonald.

After a quick inning from Jeff Karstens in the top of the 1st, James McDonald quickly struck out Solano and Coghlan for the first two outs of the inning. Giancarlo Stanton had other thoughts, as he crushed the first pitch he saw out of the park, giving the Marlins a 1-0 lead.

McDonald would then get out of the inning, striking out Brantly would a dropped third strike. In the top of the 2nd, with two outs, Russell Martin returned the favor, hitting the first pitch he saw for a solo shot, tying the game out one.

McDonald would make quick work of the Marlins in the bottom of the 2nd, keeping the game tied at one heading into the 3rd. James McDonald would look to help his own cause, as he led the top of the 3rd off with a double. Starling Marte then singled, scoring McDonald to give the Pirates a 2-1 lead. After Starling Marte stole second and Neil Walker ground out, Andrew McCutchen hit a two-run shot, his thirtieth on the season, giving the Pirates a 4-1 lead.

Pitching would take the upper hand the rest of the way, as James McDonald would only walk two batters and wouldn't allow any hit/run, leading the Pirates to a 4-1 victory.

Player of the Game:

After taking the first two games of the series, the Pirates look to sweep the Marlins tomorrow afternoon, as Francisco Liriano opposes Nathan Eovaldi. First pitch, 1:10PM.

Friday, July 26, 2013

Regular Season Game #102: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Miami Marlins

Posted on July 26, 2013 at 11:15 PM.

(0)

July 26, 2013
7:10PM

Marlins Park - Miami, FL
Weather: 80�, Clear
Attendance: 5,550

Game #102: Pittsburgh Pirates at Miami Marlins
Jul 26, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (60-42)	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	1	7	1
Miami (32-70)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	4	0
W: Wandy Rodriguez (10-7) L: Jacob Turner (4-11) S: Jason Grilli (36)

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: G. Sanchez (7) HR: P. Alvarez (29) RBI: P. Alvarez (64) HBP: P. Alvarez SAC: W. Rodriguez GIDP: G. Sanchez, B. Inge
FIELDING E: A. Cabrera (9)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
W. Rodriguez (W, 10-7)	5.2	3	0	0	0	4	2.54
B. Morris (H, 1)	1.1	0	0	0	0	1	0.00
D. Welker (H, 9)	1.0	0	0	0	1	0	0.31
J. Grilli (S, 36)	1.0	1	0	0	0	1	1.06
TOTALS	9.0	4	0	0	1	6

Miami Marlins
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING SAC: D. Solano GIDP: G. Dobbs

Miami Marlins
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. Turner (L, 4-11)	7.0	6	1	1	0	2	3.99
M. Dunn	1.0	1	0	0	0	0	6.00
C. Qualls	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	4.21
TOTALS	9.0	7	1	1	0	3

Alvarez Carries Lifeless Bucs Past Lowly Marlins, 1-0

MIAMI - The Pirates took on more than they expected in the previous series against the Nationals, playing 23 innings of baseball in the past two days. After a successful trip in Washington, winning three of four, the Pirates were welcomed to Marlins Park in Miami to face the Marlins. The Marlins sit at the bottom of the standings, making them easy to overlook.

In the top of the 1st inning, Jose Tabata led off with a single. Unfortunately, Asdrubal Cabrera would ground into a double play, followed by a ground out from McCutchen to end the top half of the inning. Wandy Rodriguez would make quick work of the Marlins, getting Pierre to fly out, Solano to strike out, and Stanton to ground out to end the inning.

In the top of the 2nd, Pedro Alvarez led off with a single. But, as the 1st inning went, Gaby Sanchez grounded into a double play. Neil Walker then struck out to end the top of the 2nd. In the bottom of the 2nd, Rodriguez would get Brantly to ground out, followed by a strike out of Polanco. Valaik would single, but would be stranded as Kotchman struck out to end the inning.

The Pirates started to threaten in the top of the 3rd, as Garrett Jones and Russell Martin each led off with singles. Wandy Rodriguez would sacrifice them to second and third, now with only one out. But the Pirates couldn't muster any offense, as Jose Tabata and Asdrubal Cabrera each lined out to end the threat. After a scoreless bottom of the 3rd, Andrew McCutchen would lead off the top of the 4th by grouding out. The Pirates would get on the board on the very next play, as Pedro Alvarez hit a solo shot to left field, giving the Pirates a 1-0 lead.

After a scoreless 5th inning, the Pirates were held in check in the top of the 6th. In the bottom of the 6th, with two outs, Wandy Rodriguez had to be taken out of the game with an apparent arm injury. Bryan Morris would take over for Rodriguez, immediately getting Giancarlo Stanton to ground out to end the inning.

In the top of the 8th, Russell Martin hit a lead off single, followed by a double play ball hit by Brandon Inge.

The score would be kept at 1-0 heading into the bottom of the 9th, as Jason Grilli would come on looking for his 36th save. Juan Pierre led off with a bunt single, then advancing on a sacrifice by Solano. Grilli would then get Giancarlo Stanton to strike out swinging for the second out.

Brantly then reach first on a fielding error, advancing Pierre to third. But the Grilled Cheese would get Placido Planco to ground out to end the game and give game one to the Pirates.

Player of the Game:

After narrowly escaping the Marlins in game one, the Pirates send James McDonald to the mound to oppose former Pirate Jeff Karstens. First pitch, 3:05PM.

Pirates Rumors: 7/26/2013

Posted on July 26, 2013 at 05:37 PM.

(1)

Pirates Rumors - Stanton, Twins, Taillon
By Steve Adams [July 26, 2013 at 1:25pm EST]

Recently, the Pirates have had some ups and downs in production, not only from their offense, but from their bullpen as well. While they still hold a 6.5 game lead in the NL Central, the Cardinals and Reds are right on their tail.

Joel Sherman of the New York Post tweeted earlier today that the Rangers and Pirates, amongst other teams, regularly check in with the Marlins in regard to Giancarlo Stanton but are turned away each time. The decision comes straight from ownership, as Jeffrey Loria does not want to see Stanton traded.

There has been some speculation that the Pirates are considering moving Garrett Jones back to right field, if they can find a suitable first baseman. Moving Jones to right might seem to signal the end of Travis Snider, who may be used in a trade package to acquire the likes of Justin Morneau from the Twins. Rob Biertempfel of the Post Gazette has reported that the Pirates have checked in with the Twins on the availability of Morneau.

With Gerrit Cole in the MLB, Jameson Taillon has taken over as the #1 prospect in the Pirates farm system. Taillon, who was recently promoted to Triple-A Indianapolis, has gone (4-0) with a sub 2.00ERA. GM Neil Huntington recently stated that he has no plans of including Taillon in any trade package.

Thursday, July 25, 2013

Series Preview: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Miami Marlins

Posted on July 25, 2013 at 08:44 PM.

(0)

Series Preview | July 26-28, 2013

Pittsburgh Pirates
(59-42, 29-21 Away)

Miami Marlins
(32-69, 14-34 Home)

Team Comparison
.268	AVG	.243
.446	SLG	.351
.279	OBP	.308
2.84	ERA	4.54

Pitching Probables
Rodriguez (9-7, 2.65)	Game 1	Turner (4-10, 4.16)
McDonald (10-5, 1.60)	Game 2	Karstens (1-2, 5.14)
Liriano (6-3, 2.74)	Game 3	Eovaldi (4-10, 4.67)

Game Notes
- The Pirates, 5-5 in their last 10 games, lead the Cardinals by 6.5 games in the NL Central. - The Marlins, 2-8 in their last 10 games, sit 23 games behind the Nationals in the NL East. - Miami currently sits 4 games behind Houston for the worst record in the MLB. - Pirates outfielder, Alex Presley, has been placed on the 15-day DL with hip inflammation. In a related move, the Pirates recalled outfielder Jose Tabata from Indianapolis.

Regular Season Game #101: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Washington Nationals

Posted on July 25, 2013 at 06:29 PM.

(0)

July 25, 2013
12:35PM

Nationals Park - Washington, D.C.
Weather: 80�, Clear
Attendance: 28,521

Game #101: Pittsburgh Pirates at Washington Nationals
Jul 25, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	Extras	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (59-42)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0 1	1	5	0
Washington (56-47)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0 0	0	7	0
W: Bryan Morris (1-0) L: Zach Duke (2-4) S: Jason Grilli (35)

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING RBI: B. Inge (21) HBP: C. Barmes GIDP: S. Marte
BASERUNNING SB: A. McCutchen (30)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
A. Burnett	7.1	4	0	0	3	9	3.15
T. Watson	0.2	0	0	0	0	0	5.06
D. Welker	1.0	0	0	0	1	1	0.32
B. Morris (W, 1-0)	1.0	1	0	0	0	1	0.00
J. Grilli (S, 35)	1.0	2	0	0	1	1	1.09

Washington Nationals
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING SAC: G. Gonzalez GIDP: J. Werth
BASERUNNING SB: R. Bernadina (14) CS: D. Span (4)

Washington Nationals
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
G. Gonzalez	8.0	2	0	0	0	8	4.58
C. Stammen	2.0	0	0	0	0	2	4.67
Z. Duke (L, 2-4)	1.0	3	1	1	0	1	6.64

Inge'n for a Win: Bucs Knock Off Nats in 11th, 1-0

WASHINGTON, D.C. - After a twelve inning affair the night before, the Pirates and Nationals were destined to do it again, as A.J. Burnett opposed Gio Gonzalez. The Pirates, taking the two of the first three meetings in the four game set, looked to take the series from the Nationals with a win.

In the top of the 1st inning, the Pirates were able to work Gonzalez's pitch count, but were unable to get any production as Alex Presley grounded out, Asdrubal Cabrera lined out, and Andrew McCutchen struck out. The bottom of the 1st wasn't much different, as Burnett retired Bernadina, Lombardozzi, and Harper to end the inning.

The 2nd inning was much of the same, as Gonzalez retired the side in order, followed by Burnett getting LaRoche to ground out and Werth and Ramos to strike out to end the inning. The 3rd inning went by just as quickly, as Gonzalez and Burnett each retired the side in 1-2-3 fashion. After a quick top of the 4th from Gonzalez, Roger Bernadina got the first hit of the game off of Burnett, a single.

After Lombardozzi struck out, Bryce Harper singled, putting two on with one out. Burnett would get LaRoche to strike out and Werth to ground out to end the inning. The Pirates were again held hitless in the top of the 5th, as Alvarez struck out, Jones flew out, and Travis Snider struck out to end the top half of the inning. The Nationals made some noise in the bottom of the 5th, as Wilson Ramos walked to lead off the bottom half, followed by a one out single from Espinosa to again put two on with one out. Gio Gonzalez would sacrifice to advance the runners to second and third. Burnett would then walk Bernadina to load the bases, only to get Lombardozzi to ground out to end the threat.

With a perfect game still in tact heading into the 7th, Gonzalez got Marte and Cabrera to fly out for the first two outs of the inning. Then, on a 2-2 count, Andrew McCutchen hit a fly ball to center field that would split Bernadina and Werth, dropping in for a single and the first hit of the game.

The bullpens would lock in, sending the game into extra innings. Neither team could get any offense until the top of the 11th inning, as Travis Snider singled with one out. Michael McKenry would follow with a single of his own, putting two on with one out. Clint Barmes then reached on a fielder's choice, advancing Snider to third. With two outs, Brandon Inge would pinch hit for the pitchers spot, only to single on a 2-2 count, scoring Snider to give the Pirates a 1-0 lead.

Jason Grilli, after blowing his third save opportunity on the season, would be called upon to close the door on the Nationals in the bottom of the 11th. After striking out Bernadina, Lombardozzi singled. Then with two outs, Adam LaRoche singled to put two men on with two outs. Denard Span then walked on six pitches to load the bases. But Jason Grill would dig deep and get Wilson Ramos to ground out to end the game and send the Pirates to a series victory in Washington.

Player of the Game:

After taking the series from the Nationals in Washington, the Pirates head to Miami to face the Marlins. Game one pits Wandy Rodriguez against Jacob Turner. First pitch, 7:10PM.

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Regular Season Game #100: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Washington Nationals

Posted on July 23, 2013 at 08:52 PM.

(0)

July 24, 2013
7:05PM

Nationals Park - Washington, D.C.
Weather: 72�, Clear
Attendance: 26,896

Game #100: Pittsburgh Pirates at Washington Nationals
Jul 24, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	Extras	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (58-42)	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0 0 2	5	12	0
Washington (56-46)	0	0	0	0	0	0	2	0	1	0 0 1	4	9	1
W: Christopher Leroux (3-0) L: Ross Detwiler (7-4) S: Jared Hughes (1)

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: A. McCutchen (27), A. Cabrera (17) 3B: A. McCutchen (1) HR: G. Sanchez (8) RBI: A. McCutchen (54), G. Sanchez 2 (20) SAC: C. Barmes
BASERUNNING SB: A. McCutchen (29)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
G. Cole	6.1	4	2	2	0	12	1.74
T. Watson	0.2	1	0	0	0	1	5.23
D. Welker (H, 8)	1.0	1	0	0	0	0	0.33
J. Grilli (BS, 3)	1.0	2	1	1	0	1	1.12
C. Leroux (W, 3-0)	2.0	0	0	0	0	5	3.00
B. Wilson (H, 1)	0.1	0	1	1	2	0	3.86
J. Hughes (S, 1)	0.2	1	0	0	0	1	3.03
TOTALS	12.0	9	4	4	2	20

Washington Nationals
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: J. Werth (23), A. LaRoche (16) HR: A. LaRoche (14) RBI: A. LaRoche 2 (66), J. Werth (53), K. Suzuki (25) HBP: W. Ramos GIDP: S. Lombardozzi
BASERUNNING SB: I. Desmond (15)
FIELDING E: J. Zimmerman (3)

Washington Nationals
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. Zimmerman	6.0	4	2	1	0	8	2.58
Z. Duke	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	6.57
C. Stammen	0.1	2	1	1	0	1	4.85
H. Rodriguez	0.2	1	0	0	0	0	4.65
W. Ohman	2.0	3	0	0	0	2	2.76
R. Detwiler (L, 7-4)	1.1	2	2	2	1	2	4.23
T. Clippard	0.2	0	0	0	0	1	2.41
TOTALS	12.0	12	5	4	1	15
PITCHING WP: R. Detwiler (1)

Gaby Sanchez's Pinch Hit Blast Sends Pirates to Thrilling Extra Inning Victory

WASHINGTON, D.C. - After taking game one of the four game set in Washington, the Pirates looked to have command of the second game of the series, that is until the Nats offense woke up and stormed back to take the lead and the game from the Bucs. Looking keep their losing streak to a minimum, the Pirates sent rookie sensation Gerrit Cole to the mound, to oppose Jordan Zimmerman. On paper, this matchup has superstar potential.

The Pirates got to Zimmerman right from the get go, as Starling Marte led off with a single, followed by a single from Neil Walker to put two on with no one out. Andrew McCutchen then tripled, scoring Marte to give the Pirates a 1-0 lead. A baserunning blunder would cause McCutchen to be called out at third, as Neil Walker safely made it back.

Pedro Alvarez would ground out, scoring Walker to push the Pirates ahead 2-0. Zimmerman would get Garrett Jones to strike out to end the inning. In the top of the 2nd, Asdrubal Cabrera would double to center with two outs, only to be stranded as Gerrit Cole would ground out to end the top of the inning.

Gerrit Cole continued to roll in the bottom of the 2nd, getting Harper and LaRoche to strike out, followed by a ground out from Ian Desmond to end the inning. Gerrit Cole and Jordan Zimmerman would continue in a pitchers dual until the 7th inning, when Bryce Harper singled with one out and then scored on an Adam LaRoche two-run shot to tie the game at two.

In the top of the 8th, Russell Martin led off with a single, advancing to second on a one out single from pinch hitter Alex Presley. Starling Marte would single to load the bases with one out. Neil Walker would then ground into a double play, but Russell Martin would score before the second out, giving the Pirates a 3-2 lead.

After a scoreless top of the 9th, Jason Grilli would come in to shut the door on the Nats. After getting Harper to ground out, Adam LaRoche doubled, followed by a ground out from Desmond for the second out. Jason Werth then doubled, scoring LaRoche to tie the game at three.

Grilli would get Wilson Ramos to strike out to end the 9th and send the game to extra innings. With the game still tied at three heading into the top of the 12th, Russell Martin led off with a six pitch walk. Martin would then reach second on a wild pitch with no outs. After Asdrubal Cabrera struck out, Gaby Sanchez hit a two-run, pinch hit dinger to give the Pirates a 5-3 lead.

Down by two in the bottom of the 12th, the Nationals mounted a comeback, as Werth and Ramos each were walked by Brian Wilson, putting two on with one out. Jared Hughes would take the mound, allowing a single to pinch hitter Kurt Suzuki, scoring Werth, bringing the Nationals to within one.

Hughes would get Denard Span to strike out and Lombardozzi to fly out to end the game and seal the extra innings win for the Pirates.

Player of the Game:

Looking to avoid a series split and take the series win, the Pirates send A.J. Burnett to the mound to oppose Gio Gonzalez in an afternoon matinee. First pitch, 12:35PM.

Monday, July 22, 2013

Regular Season Game #99: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Washington Nationals

Posted on July 22, 2013 at 08:02 PM.

(0)

July 23, 2013
7:05PM

Nationals Park - Washington, D.C.
Weather: 77�, Clear
Attendance: 29,874

Game #99: Pittsburgh Pirates at Washington Nationals
Jul 23, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (57-42)	0	0	0	2	2	0	0	0	0	4	14	1
Washington (56-45)	2	0	0	0	1	0	2	2	X	7	6	0
W: Tyler Clippard (3-5) L: Kyle McPherson (0-2) S: Rafael Soriano (25)

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: S. Marte (20), G. Jones (15), T. Snider (12), R. Martin (8) RBI: G. Jones (50), R. Martin (37), T. Snider (27), F. Liriano (1)
FIELDING E: P. Alvarez (3)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
F. Liriano	6.0	2	3	3	1	5	2.74
K. McPherson (L, 0-2)	1.0	1	2	1	1	1	5.68
C. Leroux	1.0	3	2	2	0	1	3.16

Washington Nationals
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: D. Espinosa (5) HR: A. LaRoche 2 (13), J. Werth (12) RBI: A. LaRoche 4 (64), J. Werth (52), D. Span (25), D. Espinosa (20) HBP: B. Harper SF: D. Span

Washington Nationals
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
S. Strasburg	5.0	13	4	4	0	6	3.79
T. Clippard (W, 3-5)	2.0	0	0	0	0	4	2.44
W. Ohman (H, 12)	1.0	1	0	0	0	2	2.87
R. Soriano (S, 25)	1.0	0	0	0	0	2	5.79

Former Bucco LaRoche Powers Nats to 7-4 Win

WASHINGTON, D.C. - After struggling to score runs in their series with Cincinnati, the Pirates offense exploded for eleven runs against the Nationals in game one of the four game set. Looking to continue their offensive outburst, the Pirates sent Francisco Liriano to the mound to oppose a struggling Nationals lineup.

In the top of the 1st inning, Starling Marte led off with a single, advancing to second on a ground out by Neil Walker. Andrew McCutchen then singled to shallow left field, holding Marte at third. After Pedro Alvarez struck out, Garrett Jones flew out to end the top of the inning. In the bottom of the 1st, Ryan Zimmerman walked with one out, then scoring on a two-run shot from Adam LaRoche to give the Nationals a 2-0 lead.

The 2nd and 3rd innings were quiet, as both pitchers retired the sides in order. In the top of the 4th, Pedro Alvarez singled to lead off the inning, followed by a single from Garrett Jones to put two on with no outs. Then, with one out, Russell Martin singled, scoring Alvarez to cut the lead to one.

With two outs, Francisco Liriano singled up the middle, scoring Jones to tie the game at two. On that same play, Russell Martin would attempt to score, only to be called out and home to end the inning. After a scoreless bottom of the 4th, the Pirates would get the offense rolling again in the top of the 5th, as Neil Walker singled with one out. Andrew McCutchen would then single, putting two on with one out. Garrett Jones would double with two outs, scoring Walker to give the Pirates a 3-2 lead.

Travis Snider would follow with a single, scoring McCutchen to put the Bucs up 4-2. The Nats would get one back in the bottom of the 5th, as Jason Werth hit a first pitch solo shot to cut the lead to one.

After a scoreless 6th inning, the Nationals struck off of Kyle McPherson in the bottom of the 7th, as a Danny Espinosa single would score Werth to tie the game at four. After Bryce Harper was hit by a pitch, Denard Span hit a sac fly to score Wilson Ramos, giving the Nationals a 5-4 lead.

The Nationals would add two more on in the bottom of the 8th, as Ryan Zimmerman led off the inning with a single, then scoring on a two-run shot by Adam LaRoche, his second on the day, pushing the Nationals lead to 7-4. Rafael Soriano would come on in the bottom of the 9th and make quick work of the Pirates, sending the Nationals to victory.

Player of the Game:

After splitting the first two games of the series, the Pirates will send Gerrit Cole to the mound to oppose Jordan Zimmerman. First pitch, 7:05PM.

Saturday, July 20, 2013

Regular Season Game #98: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Washington Nationals

Posted on July 20, 2013 at 02:47 PM.

(0)

July 22, 2013
7:05PM

Nationals Park - Washington, D.C.
Weather: 81�, Clear
Attendance: 30,879

Game #98: Pittsburgh Pirates at Washington Nationals
Jul 22, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (57-41)	0	5	1	3	0	0	0	2	0	11	19	0
Washington (55-45)	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	1	6	1
W: James McDonald (10-5) L: Ross Detwiler (7-3) S: N/A

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: C. Barmes (7) HR: A. McCutchen 2 (29), R. Martin (15), S. Marte (8), N. Walker (4) RBI: A. McCutchen 4 (53), R. Martin 2 (36), S. Marte 2 (21), C. Barmes (21), N. Walker 2 (12), SAC: J. McDonald
BASERUNNING SB: S. Marte (19) CS: S. Marte (9)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. McDonald (W, 10-5)	7.0	5	1	1	0	10	1.60
B. Wilson	1.0	1	0	0	1	0	0.00
T. Watson	1.0	0	0	0	0	2	5.40

Washington Nationals
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: I. Desmond (21) RBI: I. Desmond (44) GIDP: J. Werth
FIELDING E: I. Desmond (15)

Washington Nationals
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
R. Detwiler (L, 7-3)	2.0	9	5	5	0	1	4.12
Y. Maya	4.0	5	4	3	0	3	7.52
C. Stammen	2.0	3	2	2	0	0	4.70
W. Ohman	1.0	2	0	0	0	0	2.93

Offense Explodes as Pirates Crush Nationals 11-1

WASHINGTON, D.C. - After salvaging a win in their three game series in Cincinnati, the Pirates continued on their road trip, heading to the nations capital for a four game series with the Nationals. Game one would showcase James McDonald for the Pirates and Ross Detwiler for the Nationals.

Starling Marte would lead off the top of the 1st with a single, only to be caught stealing second with Neil Walker batting. Detwiler would get Walker and McCutchen to ground out to end the inning. In the bottom of the 1st, after Denard Span struck out, Steve Lombardozzi singled to center. Lombardozzi reached second on a ground out by Zimmerman, but would be stranded as Bryce Harper struck out to end the inning.

The Pirates offense exploded in the top of the 2nd, as Pedro Alvarez reached on a ball deflected off of Denard Span, then scoring on a two-run shot from Russell Martin to put the Pirates on the board.

After Gaby Sanchez struck out, Travis Snider and Clint Barmes each singled, then advancing to second and third on a sacrifice by James McDonald. Starling Marte then reached on a ball deflected off a Detwiler, scoring Snider, giving the Pirates a 3-0 lead. After Starling Marte stole second, Neil Walker singled, scoring Barmes to push the lead to 4-0.

Andrew McCutchen followed with a single of his own, scoring Marte to give the Pirates a commanding 5-0 lead. The Pirates added one in the top of the 3rd, as Clint Barmes singled home Snider to put the lead at six. After a quick inning in the bottom of the 3rd, the Pirates got at the Nats again, Starling Marte, Neil Walker, and Andrew McCutchen hit back to back to back home runs, extending the lead to 9-0.

After quiet 5th and 6th innings, Steve Lombardozzi led off the bottom of the 7th with a single. With one out, Bryce Harper singled, giving the Nats runners at first and second with one out. After Adam LaRoche flew out, Ian Desmond doubled to center, scoring Lombardozzi to give the Nationals one run. McDonald would strike out Jason Werth to end the inning. In the top of the 8th, Starling Marte reached on a fielders choice and then scored on an Andrew McCutchen two-run shot, his second of the game, sealing the game for the Pirates with an 11-1 lead. Tony Watson dominantly pitched in the bottom of the 9th, making quick work of the Nats, and sending the Pirates to their second straight victory.

Player of the Game:

After dominating the Nationals in game one of the series, the Pirates send Francisco Liriano to the mound to oppose young phenom Stephen Strasburg. First pitch, 7:05PM.

Series Preview: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Washington Nationals

Posted on July 20, 2013 at 01:10 PM.

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Series Preview | July 22-25, 2013

Pittsburgh Pirates
(56-41, 26-20 Away)

Washington Nationals
(55-44, 26-23 Home)

Team Comparison
.266	AVG	.266
.277	OBP	.325
.444	SLG	.408
2.85	ERA	3.85

Pitching Probables
McDonald (9-5, 1.61)	Game 1	Detwiler (7-2, 3.79)
Liriano (6-3, 2.61)	Game 2	Strasburg (5-7, 3.64)
Cole (3-2, 1.60)	Game 3	Zimmerman (10-4, 2.63)
Burnett (10-4, 3.32)	Game 4	Haren (13-3, 3.09)

Game Notes
- The Pirates, 3-7 in their last 10 games, hold a five game lead over the Cardinals for first place in the NL Central - The Nationals, 8-2 in their last 10 games, hold a two game lead of the Phillies for first place in the NL East

Regular Season Game #97: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Cincinnati Reds

Posted on July 20, 2013 at 11:47 AM.

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July 21, 2013
1:10PM

Great American Ball Park - Cincinnati, OH
Weather: 87�, Overcast
Attendance: 21,851

Game #97: Pittsburgh Pirates at Cincinnati Reds
Jul 21, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (56-41)	1	0	0	1	1	1	0	1	0	5	8	1
Cincinnati (51-48)	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	1	2	7	0
W: Wandy Rodriguez (9-7) L: Bronson Arroyo (11-7) S: N/A

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: T. Snider (11) HR: S. Marte 2 (7), P. Alvarez (28), A. McCutchen (27) RBI: S. Marte 2 (19), P. Alvarez (63), A. McCutchen (49), W. Rodriguez (1)
BASERUNNING CS: A. McCutchen (9)
FIELDING E: B. Wilson (1)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
W. Rodriguez (W, 9-7)	8.0	5	1	1	0	5	2.65
B. Wilson	1.0	2	1	0	0	0	0.00

Cincinnati Reds
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING HR: R. Hanigan (12) RBI: R. Ludwick (39), R. Hanigan (35)
BASERUNNING SB: S. Choo (14)

Cincinnati Reds
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
B. Arroyo (L, 11-7)	5.1	6	4	4	0	3	4.18
D. Oliver	1.2	1	1	1	0	0	2.80
S. Le Cure	2.0	1	0	0	0	1	3.46

Mart� Part�: Homers Back Wandy's Dazzling Outing

CINCINNATI - Skeptical? Most fans. Reason to be skeptical? Yes. After reaching a pinnacle of 16 games over .500 in 2012, the Pirates headed into the All-Star break 16 games over, leaving fans to wonder what would happen this year. In typical Pittsburgh fashion, fans have started to lose faith after the two game skid to lead off the second half of the season, especially due to the fact that the two loses have come from the Pirates NL Central foe, Cincinnati. Looking to keep the Bucs from a series sweep, Wandy Rodriguez took the mound to oppose Bronson Arroyo.

Apparently, after the first two games of the series, Starling Marte got the home run memo, leading off the top of the first with a solo shot, giving the Pirates an early 1-0 lead.

With the lead in hand, Rodriguez took the mound and allowed a single to Shin Soo Choo to lead off the game. With Brandon Phillips batting, Choo stole second to put a runner in scoring position with no outs. After getting Phillips to fly out, Rodriguez would strike out Joey Votto and get Jay Bruce to ground out to end the inning.

The second and third innings were quickly paced, as each pitcher breezed through the orders in 1-2-3 fashion. In the top of the 4th, after a Neil Walker ground out, Andrew McCutchen hit a solo shot, giving the Pirates a 2-0 lead.

Ryan Hanigan would return the favor in the bottom of the 4th, hitting a two out solo shot to cut the lead back to one.

In the bottom of the 5th, Travis Snider led off with a double, advancing to third on a ground out by Asdrubal Cabrera. With one out, Wandy Rodriguez back his own cause, singling to right, scoring Snider to give the Bucco's a 3-1 lead. After a scoreless bottom of the 5th, Pedro Alvarez hit his 28th bomb of the season, pushing the lead to 4-1.

Starling Marte would pad the lead in the top of the 8th, hitting his second homer of the game, extending the lead to four. With the Reds down to the last chance of the game, manager Clint Hurdle would turn to recent call-up and former All-Star, Brian Wilson. Wilson had some good stuff velocity wise, but struggled with control. After allowing Joey Votto to reach on an error, Jay Bruce reached on a fielders choice, followed by a single from Todd Frazier to put two on with one out. Ryan Hanigan then lined out for the second out of the inning. Down to their final out, former Bucco Ryan Ludwick singled, scoring Jay Bruce to put the Pirates lead at three. But Brian Wilson would get Chris Heisey to ground out to end the game and send the Pirates to a 5-2 victory.

Player of the Game:

After avoiding the sweep in Cincinnati, the Pirates continue their 10-game road trip, heading to Washington to take on the Nationals in a four game series. In game one, James McDonald will oppose Ross Detwiler. First pitch, 7:05PM.

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Roster Moves: 7/20/2013

Posted on July 17, 2013 at 11:56 PM.

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by Tom Singer / MLB.com / July 20, 2013

The Pittsburgh Pirates have announced the following roster moves:

Promoted to MLB

RP Brian Wilson

20G, 24.2IP, 1.09ERA, 30SO, 10BB, 0.89WHIP

Optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis

RP Mark Melancon
30G, 31.2IP, 3.69ERA, 37SO, 4BB, 1.14WHIP

Regular Season Game #96: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Cincinnati Reds

Posted on July 17, 2013 at 10:05 PM.

(0)

July 20, 2013
4:05PM

Great American Ball Park - Cincinnati, OH
Weather: 71�, Clear
Attendance: 19,635

Game #96: Pittsburgh Pirates at Cincinnati Reds
Jul 20, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (55-41)	0	0	0	0	0	1	2	1	0	4	16	0
Cincinnati (51-47)	1	2	0	0	0	1	2	0	X	6	10	0
W: Mike Leake (5-8) L: A.J. Burnett (10-4) S: Aroldis Chapman (29)

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: P. Alvarez (21), S. Marte (19), R. Martin (7) HR: S. Marte (5), A. Presley (1) RBI: A. McCutchen (48), S. Marte 2 (17), A. Presley (1) GIDP: A. McCutchen
FIELDING PB: R. Martin (2)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
A. Burnett (L, 10-4)	6.0	8	4	4	0	7	3.32
M. Melancon	1.0	2	2	2	1	2	3.69
C. Leroux	1.0	0	0	0	1	1	2.75

Cincinnati Reds
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: B. Phillips (15) HR: J. Votto (16), Z. Cozart (8) RBI: J. Votto 3 (56), Z. Cozart 2 (32), M. Olt (15)
BASERUNNING SB: S. Choo (13)

Cincinnati Reds
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
M. Leake (W, 5-8)	6.2	11	3	3	0	1	5.93
C. Hensley (H, 3)	0.1	2	0	0	0	1	1.95
J. Broxton (H, 10)	0.2	3	1	1	0	0	4.06
N. Masset (H, 10)	0.1	0	0	0	0	0	3.60
A. Chapman (S, 29)	1.0	0	0	0	0	2	1.57

Don't Look Now: Pirates Drop Second Straight to Reds 6-4

CINCINNATI - After allowing the Reds to rally for the win in the first game after the All-Star break, the Pirates looked to rebound in game two of the three game series, as A.J. Burnett took the mound to oppose an unpopular foe, Mike Leake.

The game started out much like it did in game one, as Mike Leake made quick work of the Pirates in the top of the 1st. Again, much like game one, Burnett got the Reds to two quick outs in the bottom of the 1st, but Joey Votto quickly got the Reds on the board with a solo shot to left field, giving the Reds a 1-0 lead.

As the Pirates again were retired in order in the top of the 2nd, Burnett allowed a leadoff single to Ryan Hanigan to lead off the side. After getting Mike Olt to pop out, Zach Cozart hit a two-run shot, pushing the Reds to an early 3-0 lead.

After quick and quiet innings in the 3rd and 4th, Russell Martin doubled with two outs, followed by a single from Alex Presley to put two on with two outs. Unfortunately, A.J. Burnett would step up to the plate and ground out to end the inning. After a quick bottom of the 5th, Starling Marte led off the top of the 6th with a solo shot, cutting the Bucco's deficit to two.

The Reds would add one on in the bottom of the 6th, as Chris Heisey scored on a single by Mike Olt to push the Reds lead back to three. Alex Presley led off the top of the 7th with a solo shot, cutting the lead to 4-2. Travis Snider would follow with a pinch hit single, followed by a single from Starling Marte; Snider would be called out trying to get back to second after taking a wide turn thinking about heading to third. Neil Walker would then single, putting runners on first and third with one out. Andrew McCutchen then singled, scoring Walker to put the Pirates to within one.

Pedro Alvarez would continue the hitting, singling to advance McCutchen to second with two outs. Garrett Jones would step in a big spot looking to put the Pirates ahead, only to strike out to end the side. Mark Melancon would replace A.J. Burnett and would get Izturis to strike out, followed by a walk issued to Choo. Choo would steal second and advance to third on a double from Brandon Phillips with only one out. Joey Votto then singled, scoring Choo and Phillips to put the Reds back up 6-3.

The Pirates would get another threat in the top of the 8th, but would only get one across, as a Starling Marte double would score Asdrubal Cabrera to cut the lead to 6-4. Aroldis Chapman would make the Pirates look silly, getting McCutchen and Alvarez to strike out, followed by a ground out from Garrett Jones to end the inning.

Player of the Game:

The Pirates look to salvage one game of the series, as Wandy Rodriguez takes the mound to oppose Bronson Arroyo. First pitch, 1:10pm.

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Regular Season Game #95: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Cincinnati Reds

Posted on July 16, 2013 at 09:28 PM.

(0)

July 19, 2013
7:10PM

Great American Ball Park - Cincinnati, OH
Weather: 71�, Clear
Attendance: 19,635

Game #95: Pittsburgh Pirates at Cincinnati Reds
Jul 19, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (55-40)	0	0	0	0	3	0	0	0	1	4	6	0
Cincinnati (50-47)	1	0	1	0	0	0	2	2	X	6	8	0
W: Sam Le Cure (1-2) L: Gerrit Cole (3-2) S: Aroldis Chapman (28)

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: N. Walker (10) HR: G. Jones (26), P. Alvarez 2 (27) RBI: G. Jones 2 (49), P. Alvarez 2 (62)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
G. Cole (L, 3-2)	6.2	6	4	4	1	7	1.60
D. Welker	0.1	0	0	0	0	1	0.35
J. Hughes	1.0	2	2	2	0	2	3.09

Cincinnati Reds
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: B. Phillips (14), Z. Cozart (9) HR: J. Bruce (17), Z. Cozart (7), S. Choo (13) RBI: J. Winker 2 (4), J. Bruce 2 (61), Z. Cozart (30), S. Choo (48)

Cincinnati Reds
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. Cueto	6.1	3	3	3	0	7	3.28
S. Le Cure (W, 1-2)	0.2	0	0	0	0	1	3.65
D. Oliver (H, 12)	1.0	2	0	0	0	0	2.72
A. Chapman (S, 28)	1.0	1	1	1	0	3	1.62

Cole Roughed Up as Reds Rally Past Pirates 6-4

CINCINNATI - After what seemed to be the All-Star break that never ended, the Pirates kicked off the second half of the season at NL Central foe Cincinnati. With the Reds still within striking distance in the Central, the Pirates looked to push themselves ahead in the playoff race. The Pirates would send Gerrit Cole to the mound to oppose Johnny Cueto and the Reds.

Johnny Cueto looked to be just as good as he was in the first half of the season, getting Starling Marte to strike out on three pitches, followed by ground outs from Cabrera and McCutchen to end the top of the 1st. In the bottom of the 1st, after a first pitch strike to Shin Soo Choo, Gerrit Cole made his first mistake of the second half of the season, lobbing a changeup right down the pipe. Choo would get every inch of the pitch, knocking it out of the park, giving the Reds a very early one run lead.

After getting Brandon Phillips and Joey Votto to ground out, Cole would strike out Jay Bruce to end the 1st. Cole and Cueto each sailed through the 2nd inning, getting each side in order. After Cueto again retired the side in the 3rd, Zach Cozart led off the bottom of the 3rd with a home run, the second homer off of Cole in the game, giving the Reds a 2-0 lead.

A scoreless 4th inning led to an offensive explosion by the Pirates in the 5th, as Pedro Alvarez led off with a solo home run to cut the Pirates deficit to one. Neil Walker then followed with a double, then scoring on a monster two-run shot by Garrett Jones to give the Pirates a 3-2 lead.

The Pirates took a 3-2 lead heading into the bottom of the 7th, but the Reds stormed back. With two outs, Mike Olt singled, followed by a double from Zach Cozart to put runners on second and third. Jesse Winker then hit a pinch hit single, scoring Olt and Cozart to give the Reds a 4-3 lead.

The Reds added on in the 8th, as Joey Votto hit a one out single, then scoring on a two-run bomb from Jay Bruce to push the Reds lead to 6-3. Down by two heading into the 9th, the Pirates faced the daunting task in closer Aroldis Chapman. Chapman would strike out McCutchen, but would allow a solo shot to Pedro Alvarez, his second home run of the game to cut the lead to two. Chapman would strike out Walker and Jones to end the game and give the Reds the victory.

Player of the Game: