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Monday, May 13, 2013

5/20/2013 - OFF DAY

Posted on May 13, 2013 at 09:43 PM.

(0)

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

On a relatively quiet day off for the Pirates, Neil Huntington made a set of minor league roster moves.

The Indianapolis Indians have promoted RP Brian Wilson from Altoona. Wilson got off to a shaky start, but has settled down nicely, pitching 12.1 innings, allowing 11 hits, 4 walks, and striking out 14 with a 2.19 ERA.

In a related move, the Indianapolis Indians have sent down SP Jeanmar Gomez to Altoona. Gomez started the season off in Pittsburgh, but struggled mightily before being sent down to Indy. In Indianapolis, Gomez pitched 18.2 innings, allowing 24 hits and 8 walks while striking out 10 with a 6.75ERA.

Regular Season Game #45: Houston Astros @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on May 13, 2013 at 08:08 PM.

(0)

May 19, 2013
1:35PM

PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
Weather: 80�, Partly Cloudy
Attendance: 25,800

Houston Astros at Pittsburgh Pirates
May 19, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Houston (14-30)	0	0	0	0	0	0	2	0	5	7	11	1
Pittsburgh (27-18)	0	0	0	0	0	2	0	0	0	2	9	1
W: Edgar Gonzalez (1-1) L: Jared Hughes (3-1) S: N/A

Houston Astros
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING HR: B. Wallace (4) RBI: B. Wallace 3 (15), J. Maxwell (7), C. Corporan (7), R. Cedeno (13), J. Elmore (7) SF: R. Cedeno GIDP: J. Altuve
FIELDING E: C. Corporan (3)

Houston Astros
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
L. Harrell	5.1	7	2	2	1	2	4.70
H. Ambriz	0.2	0	0	0	0	1	5.64
E. Gonzalez (W, 1-1)	2.0	2	0	0	0	4	7.28
J. Cosart	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	2.92

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: G. Jones (8), P. Alvarez (13) HR: G. Jones (13) RBI: G. Jones (25), J. Sands (1) SAC: J. Sanchez
BASERUNNING SB: S. Marte (4)
FIELDING E: G. Jones (4)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. Sanchez	6.2	5	2	1	1	4	3.62
D. Welker (BS, 1)	0.1	1	0	0	0	0	0.00
J. Hughes (L, 3-1)	1.0	1	1	1	0	1	3.31
M. Melancon	1.0	4	4	4	0	1	4.08

Astors Use Five Run 9th to Take Series From Pirates

PITTSBURGH -With a decisive victory in game one against the Astros, the Pirates were shut out in game two, as the offense could only muster four hits in support of James McDonald. Looking to take the series, the Pirates send lefty Jonathan Sanchez to the mound to oppose up and coming Lucas Harrell.

In the top of the 1st, the Pirates got an early scare, as Brett Wallace hit a ground ball that deflected off of Jonathan Sanchez for a single. Sanchez limped at first, but was able to walk it off and continue. Immediately after the single, Sanchez would get Jose Altuve to ground into a double play. In the top of the 2nd, with Martinez and Maxwell on 1st and 2nd, Carlos Corporan would ground out to end the inning.

In the bottom of the 3rd, Starling Marte would single and steal 2nd, but would be stranded at second as Garrett Jones struck out to end the inning. After a scoreless top of the 4th, the Pirates were feet away from taking a 2-0 lead, as Russell Martin and Gaby Sanchez each flew out to the warning track to end the 4th.

The bottom of the 5th had potential for the Pirates, as Brandon Inge singled, followed by a walk issued to John McDonald. Jonathan Sanchez would sacrifice, advancing the runners to 2nd and 3rd with two outs. But Starling Marte would ground out on a 3-2 pitch to end the threat. But the 6th inning would get the Pirates on the board, as Garrett Jones smashed a solo home run out of PNC Park - his 100th career home run - to give the Pirates a 1-0 lead.

Pedro Alvarez would follow with a ground rule double and then score on a single from Gaby Sanchez to put the Pirates up 2-0. But the Astros would strike in the top of the 7th, as Chris Carter and J.D. Martinez would get on base. Justin Maxwell would then reach on a fielders choice, scoring Carter to cut the lead to 1.

Duke Welker would replace Sanchez, inheriting 2 bases runners. Jake Elmore singled, scoring Martinez to tie the game at 2. In the bottom of the 7th, Michael McKenry was in to pinch hit, lining a ball up the middle and was robbed by Ronny Cedeno.

Garrett Jones hit a two out double, but would be left on base as Alvarez struck out to end the inning. With the game tied at 2 heading into the 9th, Martinez would single off of Hughes, forcing Clint Hurdle to call upon Mark Melancon. After Dominguez hit a bunt single, Castro bunted to the catcher for a single, followed by a Corporan singles that would score Martinez giving the Astros a 3-2 lead. Ronny Cedeno would hit a sac fly, scoring Dominguez to put the Astros up 4-2. Brett Wallace would put the game away, hitting a 3-run home run to give the Astros a 7-2 lead. The Pirates wouldn't be able to muster any offense in the bottom of the 9th, dropping the game and the series to the Astros.

Player of the Game:

The Pirates get a much needed off day tomorrow, before welcoming the Chicago Cubs for a three game set. First pitch, 7:05PM.

5/18/13: Minor League Update

Posted on May 13, 2013 at 07:23 PM.

(0)

by Tom Singer / MLB.com / May 18, 2013

Contreras, Wilson Combine for Shutout of Richmond

RICHMOND - Jose Contreras and Brian Wilson combined for a shutout of the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Both are on minor league rehab assignments, working their way back to the majors.

Contreras, pitched 7 strong innings, allowing 7 hits, while striking out 12.

Wilson, pitched the remaining two innings, allowing one walk.

The shutout gave way to a Curve 6-0 victory.

Sunday, May 12, 2013

Regular Season Game #44: Houston Astros @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on May 12, 2013 at 10:20 PM.

(0)

Armed Forces Day
May 18, 2013
7:05PM

PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
Weather: 60�, Clear
Attendance: 26,004

Houston Astros at Pittsburgh Pirates
May 18, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Houston (13-30)	0	0	1	0	0	1	0	0	0	2	7	2
Pittsburgh (27-17)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	4	0
W: Brad Peacock (2-2) L: James McDonald (4-2) S: Jose Veras (10)

Houston Astros
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: J. Altuve (8), F. Martinez (9) RBI: J. Altuve (9), R. Cedeno (12) HBP: B. Wallace SAC: B. Peacock
FIELDING E: B. Peacock (1), R. Cedeno (3) PB: J. Castro (1)

Houston Astros
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
B. Peacock (W, 2-2)	7.0	2	0	0	1	4	4.73
W. Wright (H, 7)	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	4.25
J. Veras (S, 10)	1.0	2	0	0	1	0	1.50

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING HBP: G. Jones (6) SAC: J. McDonald GIDP: P. Alvarez 2 (28)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. McDonald (L, 4-2)	8.0	5	2	2	0	5	1.17
T. Watson	0.1	2	0	0	0	1	2.19
J. Hughes	0.2	0	0	0	0	1	2.93

Offense Stifled as Astros Blank Pirates 2-0

PITTSBURGH - The Pirates blasted former teammate Erik Bedard in game one of the series, taking down the Astros 7-2. The Astros had penciled in Philip Humber for today's start, but Brad Peacock was called upon to oppose early CY Young candidate James McDonald for game two.

In the bottom of the 1st, Travis Snider reached 1st on an error, followed by a single from Pedro Alvarez to put two on with two out. Garrett Jones would ground out end the inning and what would later become that Pirates only threat of the game. In the top of the 3rd, J.D. Martinez singled and then advanced on a sacrifice, followed by a single from Ronny Cedeno which would score Martinez to give the Astros a 1-0 lead.

In the bottom of the 4th, Garrett Jones singled with two outs. Russell Martin then hit a line drive to second and was robbed of a hit by Ronny Cedeno to end the inning.

In the bottom of the 5th, Clint Barmes singled, but was stranded at first as Starling Marte struck out to end the inning. With two outs in the top of the 6th, McDonald hit Wallace, opening the window for a Jose Altuve doube which would score Wallace to put the Astros up 2-0.

Andrew McCutchen reached on an error in the bottom of the 6th, but would be called out at second on a double play by Pedro Alvarez to end the inning. The Pirates made some noise in the 7th, as Garrett Jones was hit by a pitch to lead of the bottom of the 7th, followed by John McDonald reaching on a fielders choice. But Clint Barmes would ground out to end the threat and the inning.

In the top of the 9th, with Tony Watson pitching, Chris Carter singled, followed by a single from Matt Dominguez to put runners on 1st and 3rd. Jared Hughes would be called upon to pitch, getting Martinez to strike out and Ankiel to ground out to end the inning.

The Pirates were down to their last three outs in the bottom of the 9th, with another former Bucco, Jose Versa, in to close the game. With one out, Pedro Alvarez would single, followed by a single to Garrett Jones. Alvarez and Jones would advance to 2nd and 3rd on a wild pitch with two outs, putting both in scoring position. John McDonald would follow with a walk to load the bases. With 2 outs, Clint Barmes stepped into a big spot, working the count to 2-2. On the 5th pitch of the at bat, Barmes hit a line drive to second and was robbed on a stretched out jumping catch by Cedeno to end the game and seal the victory for the Astros.

Player of the Game:

The Pirates and Astros face off in the series finale tomorrow afternoon, as the Bucco's look to take the series from the Astros. First pitch, 1:35PM.

Regular Season Game #43: Houston Astros @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on May 12, 2013 at 09:14 PM.

(0)

May 17, 2013
7:05PM

PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
Weather: 54�, Clear
Attendance: 25,408

Houston Astros at Pittsburgh Pirates
May 17, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Houston (12-30)	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	1	2	7	2
Pittsburgh (27-16)	0	2	0	2	2	0	1	0	X	7	11	0
W: Wandy Rodriguez (5-3) L: Erik Bedard (2-5) S: N/A

Houston Astros
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: J. Maxwell (2) HR: J. Maxwell (3) RBI: J. Maxwell 2 (6)
FIELDING E: J. ELy (1), J. Altuve (4)

Houston Astros
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
E. Bedard (L, 2-5)	4.0	8	4	4	1	1	5.85
J. Ely	2.0	2	2	2	0	3	4.91
W. Wright	1.0	1	1	1	0	1	4.40
E. Gonzalez	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	7.81

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: S. Marte (14), T. Snider (5) HR: B. Inge (4) RBI: S. Marte 4 (11), G. Jones (24), B. Inge 2 (11) SAC: W. Rodriguez GIDP: W. Rodriguez
BASERUNNING SB: S. Marte (3)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
W. Rodriguez (W, 5-3)	8.0	6	1	1	1	6	2.63
C. Leroux	1.0	1	1	1	0	0	4.41

Pirates Blast Former Bucco Bedard for 7-2 Win

PITTSBURGH - After splitting a four game series with the Brewers, the Pirates welcomed former NL Central foe Houston to PNC Park for a three game weekend series. Amongst Houston's players, were game one starter Erik Bedard and SS Ronny Cedeno, both former Pirates from last years roster. The Astros move to the AL West hasn't provided any spark, as they head into Pittsburgh 17 games under .500.

After a 1-2-3 half inning from Wandy Rodriguez, the Pirates started hitting Bedard early, getting singles from Andrew McCutchen and Garrett Jones with two outs. On a 2-2 count, Brandon Inge would fly out at the warning track to end the inning. The Pirates got at Bedard again in the bottom of the 2nd, as John McDonald and Clint Barmes singled with one out, later scoring on an RBI double from Starling Marte to give the Pirates a 2-0 lead.

The Astros made some noise in the top of the 4th, as Jose Altuve and Chris Carter single to put two on with two out. J.D. Martinez would ground out to end the inning and leave the two stranded. In the bottom of the 4th, Bedard got into major trouble, filling the bases with no outs. Wandy Rodriguez would hit a chopper in front of the plate, forcing a double play as Michael McKenry was called out at home. With two outs, Starling Marte singled, scoring McDonald and Barmes to give the Pirates a 4-0 lead.

The bottom of the 5th had the Pirates adding to their lead, as Brandon Inge hit a 2-run home run, scoring Andrew McCutchen to put the lead at 6.

The Astros finally got to Rodriguez in the top of the 7th, as Matt Dominguez scored, following a double from Justin Maxwell to cut the score to 6-1.

In the bottom of the 7th, Travis Snider doubled, extending his hitting streak to 18 games. Garrett Jones would then single, scoring Snider to push the lead back up to 6. With a pitch count reaching 100 and a 6 run lead, Clint Hurdle turned to Christopher Leroux for the 9th. Leroux would allow a solo home run to Justin Maxwell, but would get Corporan to ground out to end the game.

Player of the Game:

The Pirates and Astros square off in game two of this three game series, as Brad Peacock replaces Philip Humber to oppose James McDonald. First pitch, 7:05PM.

Saturday, May 11, 2013

Series Preview: Houston Astros @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on May 11, 2013 at 11:27 AM.

(0)

Series Preview | May 17, 2013

Houston Astros
(12-29, 3-16 Away)

Pittsburgh Pirates
(26-16, 16-6 Home)

Team Comparison
.256	AVG	.298
.365	SLG	.499
.322	OBP	.303
5.20	ERA	3.33

Pitching Probables
Bedard (2-4), 5.50	Game 1	Rodriguez (4-3), 2.84
Humber (0-5), 5.90	Game 2	McDonald (4-1), 1.01
Harrell (4-2), 4.86	Game 3	Sanchez (3-3), 3.94

Game Notes
- The Astros enter the series on a 7 game losing streak, currently sitting in last place in the AL West - The Pirates enter the series on a 1 game win streak, currently sitting a game and a half above the Reds in first place in the NL Central - Game 1 pits former Pirates lefty Erik Bedard against last years acquisition from Houston Wandy Rodriguez

Regular Season Game #42: Milwaukee Brewers @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on May 11, 2013 at 09:45 AM.

(0)

May 16, 2013
7:05PM

PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
Weather: 59�, Clear
Attendance: 30,672

Milwaukee Brewers at Pittsburgh Pirates
May 16, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Milwaukee (13-27)	0	0	0	0	0	4	0	0	0	4	7	0
Pittsburgh (26-16)	0	0	1	2	0	1	2	0	X	6	12	0
W: Christopher Leroux (2-0) L: Tom Gorzelanny (0-2) S: Jason Grilli (15)

Milwaukee Brewers
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: A. Gonzalez (3) RBI: R. Braun 2 (24), J. Lucroy (18), C. Hart (22) GIDP: A. Ramirez
BASERUNNING SB: R. Braun (7)

Milwaukee Brewers
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
M. Estrada	5.0	5	3	3	1	5	4.53
B. Badenhop (BS, 2)	1.0	3	1	1	0	2	2.35
T. Gorzelanny (L, 0-2)	0.1	2	2	2	0	0	5.40
W. Peralta	0.2	2	0	0	0	0	3.86
M. Gonzalez	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	4.50

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: S. Marte (13), A. McCutchen (12), P. Alvarez (12) HR: S. Marte (3), P. Alvarez (12) RBI: S. Marte (7), A. McCutchen (20), G. Jones (23), P. Alvarez 2 (33), T. Snider (16)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
A. Burnett	5.0	5	4	4	2	6	4.48
D. Welker	1.1	1	0	0	2	0	0.00
C. Leroux (W, 2-0)	0.2	0	0	0	0	0	4.11
M. Melancon (H, 7)	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	2.16
J. Grilli (S, 15)	1.0	1	0	0	2	0	0.54

Burnett Unravels as Pirates Hold on for Series Split

PITTSBURGH - The Brewers, not playing up to their potential, have a 2-1 lead over the Pirates in this four game set, heading into the series finale. Looking to avoid losing the series against their NL Central foe, the Pirates send A.J. Burnett to the mound to oppose Marco Estrada.

After a 1-2-3 inning the the top of the 1st from Burnett, Travis Snider singled with 1 out, extending his hitting streak to 17 games. Estrada would lock in, getting Andrew McCutchen and Pedro Alvarez to strike out to end the inning. Burnett had a clean second inning, leading to Russell Martin singling off the right field wall in the bottom of the 2nd, but getting called out trying to reach second. With Burnett rolling, Starling Marte provided some run support, hitting a solo home run to give the Pirates a 1-0 lead.

In the top of the 4th, Burnett started showing signs of losing control, but hung in after allowing a single to Ryan Braun, getting Corey Hart to strike out to end inning. After Estrada walked Andrew McCutchen to start off the bottom of the 4th, Pedro Alvarez blasted a 2-run home run to give the Pirates a 3-0 lead.

After a scoreless 5th inning, Burnett completely lost control, allowing a pinch hit walk to Jean Segura, followed by an issued walk to Carlos Gomez, and a single by Rickie Weeks. Then, with the bases loaded and no outs, Ryan Braun singled, scoring Segura and Gomez to cut the Pirates lead to 1.

Corey Hart then followed with a single, scoring Weeks to tie the game at 3. Still with no outs, Clint Hurdle had seen enough, taking Burnett out after 5 innings.

Duke Welker was called upon out of the pen, immediately getting Aramis Ramirez to ground into a double play with 2 outs. But Jonathon Lucroy would single, scoring Braun to tack on another run to Burnett's total, giving the Brewers a 4-3. Welker would get Gonzalez to line out to end the inning.

After a leadoff double from Pedro Alvarez in the bottom of the 6th, Garrett Jones would tie the game at 4, with an RBI single.

Russell Martin would single, but was stranded following strikeouts from Brandon Ingle and Clint Barmes to end the inning. In the top of the 7th, Welker ran into trouble, walking Davis and Gomez with 1 out. Chris Leroux was called upon to get the Pirates out of the jam and would do just that, getting Ryan Braun to ground out to end the inning.

The Pirates didn't want to mess around any longer, as Starling Marte led off the inning with a double and then scored on an RBI single from Travis Snider to give the Pirates a 5-4 lead.

Andrew McCutchen then doubled, scoring Snider to put the game at 6-4 in the Pirates favor. Heading into the top of the 9th, the reliable Jason Grilli took the mound, looking for his 15th save. Grilli seemed to be fatigued, allowing a leadoff walk to Davis, then a single to pinch hitter Gennett. After getting 2 outs, Grilli walked Rickie Weeks to load the bases. With Ryan Braun up to bat, Grilli got Braun to a 3-2 count and allowed a hit that had home run potential, but was caught at the warning track to end the game.

Player of the Game:

The Pirates welcome the lowly Astros to PNC Park for a three game weekend series, with former Pirates pitcher Erik Bedard taking the mound in game one for the Astros. First pitch, 7:05PM.

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Regular Season Game #41: Milwaukee Brewers @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on May 9, 2013 at 10:16 PM.

(1)

May 15, 2013
7:05PM

PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
Weather: 41�, Clear
Attendance: 28,251

Milwaukee Brewers at Pittsburgh Pirates
May 15, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Milwaukee (13-26)	0	0	0	3	2	0	0	1	0	6	15	1
Pittsburgh (25-16)	0	0	0	0	0	0	2	1	1	4	12	2
W: Michael Fiers (2-3) L: Francisco Liriano (1-1) S: John Axford (7)

Milwaukee Brewers
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: R. Weeks (13), A. Ramirez 2 (9), M. Maldonado (5) 3B: R. Braun (1) HR: C. Gomez (9) RBI: R. Braun (22), A. Ramirez (28), C. Gomez 3 (23), M. Maldonado (7) SAC: M. Fiers 2, C. Gomez GIDP: J. Segura
FIELDING E: C. Hart (2)

Milwaukee Brewers
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
M. Fiers (W, 2-3)	7.1	8	3	3	0	5	4.70
J. Henderson (H, 6)	0.2	1	0	0	0	0	4.98
J. Axford (S, 7)	1.0	3	1	1	0	1	7.31

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: P. Alvarez (11), C. Barmes (6) HR: G. Jones (12), P. Alvarez (11) RBI: S. Marte (6), G. Jones (22), P. Alvarez (31), C. Barmes (14) GIDP: A. McCutchen, B. Inge
FIELDING E: J. Karstens (1), B. Inge (1)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
F. Liriano (L, 1-1)	4.0	10	5	5	1	4	5.73
J. Karstens	2.0	1	0	0	0	3	5.84
C. Leroux	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	4.30
T. Watson	0.2	2	1	1	0	1	2.25
J. Hughes	0.1	2	0	0	0	0	3.07
M. Melancon	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	2.30

Liriano Struggles in Second Outing as Brewers Down Pirates 6-4

PITTSBURGH - After losing Neil Walker for two months of the season, the Pirates responded nicely in game two of this four game series, coming back from a 2-0 deficit to defeat the Brewers 4-2. Looking to extend their NL Central lead, the Pirates sent Francisco Liriano to the mound, to oppose the young Mike Fiers.

Evidenced from the get go, Francisco Liriano was having control problems, getting behind in counts and unable to put the ball in the zone. With one out in the top of the 1st, Rickie Weeks doubled, then reaching 3rd on a single from Corey Hart with 2 outs. With runners on first and third, Aramis Ramirez flew out to end the inning. After a Garrett Jones single with one out in the bottom of the 1st, Andrew McCutchen hit into a double play to end the 1st.

After a scoreless 2nd inning, Liriano got into trouble again, as Carlos Gomez and Corey Hart singled with 2 outs, but were left stranded as Ramirez lined out to end the inning. Mike Fiers kept the Pirates bats silent in the bottom of the third, leading to a big inning for the Brewers in the top of the 4th. Martin Maldonado singled, followed by a single from Alex Gonzalez with no outs. After a Mike Fiers sacrifice put runners on 2nd and 3rd with 2 outs, Carlos Gomez smacked a 3-run home run, scoring Maldonado and Gonzalez, giving the Brewers a 3-0 lead.

Corey Hart lead off the top of the 5th with a walk, then scoring on an RBI double from Aramis Ramirez that would chase Francisco Liriano from the game and gave the Brewers a 4-0 lead. Jeff Karstens was called in for relief, but immediately allowed a single to Maldonado, which would score Ramirez and give the Brewers a 5-0 lead.

But the Pirates started a rally in the bottom of the 7th, as Pedro Alvarez hit a solo home run to cut the deficit to four.

Russell Martin and Jerry Sands then singled, opening up the opportunity for Clint Barmes to hit an RBI single to score Martin, cutting the lead to three. John McDonald would be called upon to pinch hit for Chris Leroux, but would ground out to end the inning. The Brewers struck back in the top of the 8th, as a Ryan Braun triple scored Rickie Weeks to put the Brewers ahead 6-2.

Still trying to claw back into the game, Garrett Jones hit a solo home run in the bottom of the 8th to cut the lead to three.

Jared Hughes, kept in the game to pitch the 9th, got the Pirates in deep trouble, loading the bases with no outs. With a thin bullpen, Clint Hurdle had no other choice but to turn to his set up man, Mark Melancon, who came in and gave a lights out pitching performance. After Melancon got Davis to strike out, Segura grounded into a double play to send the Pirates to the last three outs.

After a Clint Barmes 2 out double, Travis Snider got a pinch hit single to put Barmes in scoring position. Starling Marte would singles, scoring Barmes to cut the score to 6-4. But John Axford, looking for his 7th save, would get Garrett Jones to line out to end the inning.

Player of the Game:

The Pirates look to rebound and avoid losing the series tomorrow evening, as Marco Estrada takes the mound for the Brewers, opposing Pirates ace A.J. Burnett. First pitch, 7:05PM.

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Regular Season Game #40: Milwaukee Brewers @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on May 8, 2013 at 11:02 PM.

(0)

May 14, 2013
7:05PM

PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
Weather: 45�, Clear
Attendance: 29,463

Milwaukee Brewers at Pittsburgh Pirates
May 14, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Milwaukee (12-26)	0	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	2	5	1
Pittsburgh (25-15)	0	0	3	0	0	0	1	0	X	4	13	0
W: Jonathan Sanchez (3-3) L: Mark Rogers (2-4) S: Jason Grilli (14)

Milwaukee Brewers
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING HR: K. Davis (2) RBI: K. Davis 2 (9) HBP: M. Rogers GIDP: A. Gonzalez
FIELDING E: R. Weeks (4)

Milwaukee Brewers
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
M. Rogers (L, 2-4)	6.0	11	3	2	0	1	4.57
M. Gonzalez	0.2	2	1	1	1	0	4.71
J. Henderson	1.1	0	0	0	0	1	5.14

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: A. McCutchen (11), G. Jones (7), P. Alvarez (10), R. Martin (5) RBI: P. Alvarez 2 (30), R. Martin 2 (22) SF: R. Martin (5) SAC: J. Sanchez GIDP: P. Alvarez

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. Sanchez (W, 3-3)	7.0	5	2	2	0	9	3.94
M. Melancon (H, 6)	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	2.45
J. Grilli (S, 14)	1.0	0	0	0	0	2	0.57

Pirates Overcome Early Deficit, Down Brewers 4-2

PITTSBURGH - The Pirates were finally brought down to earth after their eight game winning streak, as the Brewers took game one of this four game set. Taking the mound for the Pirates, was lefty Jonathan Sanchez, opposing Mark Rogers of the Brewers.

Sanchez breezed through the first 2 outs of the top of the 1st, but allowed a single to Ryan Braun. But Braun wouldn't get past 1st, as Aramis Ramirez grounded out to end the inning. In the bottom of the 1st, Garrett Jones and Andrew McCutchen singled with 1 out, but Pedro Alvarez would ground into a double play to end the inning.

As they did in game one, the Brewers struck first as Jonathan Lucroy singled and then scored on a 2-run home run from Kristopher Davis to give the Brewers a 2-0 lead.

Carlos Gomez would strike out to end the inning. In the bottom of the 3rd, the Pirates got the offense started, as Travis Snider and Garrett Jones singled, followed by Andrew McCutchen reaching on an error by Rickie Weeks to load the bases. Pedro Alvarez took a 2-2 pitch and drove it to the gap for an RBI double, tying the game at 2.

Russell Martin then hit a sac fly, scoring McCutchen to put the Pirates ahead 3-2. The Pirates looked to pad teh lead in the bottom of the 5th, as Jones singled and then was called out trying to reach 3rd on a single from McCutchen. Jerry Sands would fly out to end the inning. In the top of the 7th, Jonathan Lucroy singled, but was called out on a double play by Alex Gonzalez.

In the bottom of the 8th, with 2 outs, Andrew McCutchen doubled, followed by an intentional walk to Pedro Alvarez. Russell Martin doubled home McCutchen, putting the Pirates lead at 2. In the top of the 9th, Jason Grilli would come in looking for his 14th save, and made it look easy, getting a ground out and two strikeouts, including Aramis Ramirez striking out to end the game.

Player of the Game:

The Pirates and Brewers face off in game three of the four game set tomorrow evening, with Francisco Liriano making his second start. First pitch, 7:05PM.

5/13/2013: Injury Update

Posted on May 8, 2013 at 12:09 AM.

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ESPN.com | Updated: May 13, 2013 11:45 PM ET

Pirates Place Neil Walker on 60-day DL

Neil Walker has been placed on the 60-day DL with a dislocated shoulder. Walker's injury should keep him out of action for the next two months.

Pirates Recall John McDonald

In the wake of Neil Walker's injury that will put him on the 60-day DL, the Pirates have recalled John McDonald from AAA-Indianapolis.

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Regular Season Game #39: Milwaukee Brewers @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on May 7, 2013 at 11:14 PM.

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May 13, 2013
7:05PM

PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
Weather: 45�, Clear
Attendance: 30,534

Milwaukee Brewers at Pittsburgh Pirates
May 13, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Milwaukee (12-25)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	4	2	6	11	1
Pittsburgh (24-15)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	2	0	2	11	2
W: Burke Badenhop (3-1) L: Tony Watson (2-1) S: Mike Gonzalez (1)

Milwaukee Brewers
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: C. Gomez (6), C. Hart (8) HR: R. Weeks (2), J. Lucroy (5) RBI: R. Weeks 2 (12), J. Lucroy 3 (17), C. Hart (21) GIDP: R. Weeks
BASERUNNING SB: R. Braun (6)
FIELDING E: A. Ramirez (3)

Milwaukee Brewers
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
K. Lohse	6.0	6	0	0	0	7	4.20
B. Badenhop (W, 3-1)	1.2	2	2	2	0	2	2.12
M. Gonzalez (S, 1)	1.1	3	0	0	0	2	4.43

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: C. Barmes (5), J. Sands (1) 3B: T. Snider (1) RBI: P. Alvarez 2 (28) SAC: J. McDonald
FIELDING E: J. Harrison 2 (6)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. McDonald	6.0	6	0	0	1	8	1.01
D. Welker	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	0.00
T. Watson (L, 2-1)	1.0	3	4	1	0	2	1.59
J. Hughes	1.0	2	2	2	0	1	3.14

Pirates Offense Goes Cold as Brewers Handle Pirates 6-2

PITTSBURGH - The Pittsburgh Pirates swept the Mets in their brief four game road trip, extending their winning streak to eight games. One of the biggest surprises this season, has been the resurgence of James McDonald. McDonald started the 2012 season in All-Star form, but quickly tailed off after the break. McDonald squares off against Kyle Lohse in game one of this four game series.

In the top of the 1st, the Pirates had a very scary moment, as second baseman Neil Walker dove for a ground ball from Carlos Gomez. Walker was extremely slow to get up, holding his arm and shoulder in obvious pain. Walker would be replaced by Clint Barmes, who was supposed to be on an off day with Josh Harrison starting at shortstop. No news yet on the extent of Walker's injury.

After returning to action from the injury, Rickie Weeks grounded into a double play, followed by a strikeout from Ryan Braun to end the inning. In the bottom of the 1st, Kyle Lohse was locked in, getting Starling Marte and Travis Snider to strike out, followed by a ground out from Gaby Sanchez.

After a scoreless 3rd inning, Kyle Lohse got to the Pirates again, as Lohse struck out the side, Harrison, McDonald, Marte, in order. Gaby Sanchez singled with 1 out in the bottom of the 4th, followed by Jerry Sands reaching on a throwing error by Aramis Ramirez, who made a great diving attempt to get the double play.

With two outs, Sanchez and Sands advanced on a wild pitch but would be left stranded as Brandon Inge grounded out to end the inning. After each team threatened in the 6th, the Brewers again threatened in the top of the 7th, starting with a single by Jonathon Lucroy off of James McDonald which would end his night, as his pitch count was over 100. Duke Welker took the mound for the Pirates, getting Gonzalez to line out, Davis to strike out, and Lohse to ground out to end the inning. In the bottom of the 7th, Brandon Inge led off with a single, followed by a single from Michael McKenry with no outs. Josh Harrison struck out swinging, followed by a pinch hit fly out from Garrett Jones and then a strikeout from Starling Marte to end the inning.

In the top of the 8th, with Tony Watson pitching � Gomez and Weeks struck out. Ryan Braun then singled, followed by a double from Hart to score Braun and give the Pirates a 1-0 lead. Aramis Ramirez reached on a throwing error by Harrison, and then scored on a Lucroy 3-run home run to give the Pirates a 4-0 lead.

With two outs in the bottom of the 8th, Jerry Sands singles, followed by a ground rule double from Clint Barmes. Pedro Alvarez would then hit a pinch hit single, scoring Sands and Barmes to cut the lead to 2.

But in the top of the 9th, with Jared Hughes pitching, Carlos Gomez doubled, followed by a 2-run home run from Rickie Weeks to give the Brewers a 4 run lead. In the bottom of the 9th, with 2 outs and a 3-2 count, Travis Snider belted a ball into the gap, extending his hitting streak to 14 games, collecting his first triple on the season. Gaby Sanchez would ground out to end the game and break the Pirates winning streak.

Player of the Game:

The Pirates and Brewers face off for game two of this four game set tomorrow evening at PNC Park. First pitch, 7:05PM.

Series Preview: Milwaukee Brewers @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on May 7, 2013 at 08:12 PM.

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Series Preview: Milwaukee Brewers @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Series Preview | May 13, 2013

Milwaukee Brewers
(11-25, 5-10 Away)

Pittsburgh Pirates
(24-14, 14-4 Home)

Team Comparison
.254	AVG	.294
.388	SLG	.497
.309	OBP	.299
4.80	ERA	3.29

Pitching Probables
Lohse (2-1), 4.85	Game 1	McDonald (4-1), 1.14
Rogers (2-3), 4.81	Game 2	Sanchez (2-3), 4.17
Fiers (1-3), 4.89	Game 3	Liriano (1-0), 2.57

Estrada (3-3), 4.43

Game 4

Burnett (3-2), 4.23

Game Notes
The Pirates enter the series on an eight game winning streak

Test

Posted on May 7, 2013 at 06:49 PM.

(0)

Series Preview | July 2-4, 2013

Philadelphia Phillies
(47-36, 28-18 Away)

Pittsburgh Pirates
(49-33, 26-16 Home)

Team Comparison
.259	AVG	.270
.383	SLG	.453
.321	OBP	.280
3.63	ERA	2.79

Pitching Probables
Lannan (7-2, 3.61)	Game 1	Rodriguez (8-5, 2.46)
Kendrick (4-6, 3.60)	Game 2	McDonald (7-4, 1.50)
Hamels (8-1, 2.46)	Game 3	Cole (1-1, 1.24)

Game Notes
- The Pirates, 6-4 in their last 10 games, currently sit 3 games ahead of the Cardinals for first place in the NL Central. - Pirates 2B Neil Walker, looks to be on track with his rehab, and should be returning to action within the next couple of weeks. - The Phillies, 5-5 in their last 10 games, currently sit 4 games ahead of the Nationals for first place in the East.

Regular Season Game #38: Pittsburgh Pirates @ New York Mets

Posted on May 7, 2013 at 06:16 PM.

(0)

Happy Mother's Day
May 12, 2013
1:10PM

Citi Field - Flushing, NY
Weather: 58�, Clear
Attendance: 33,273

Pittsburgh Pirates at New York Mets
May 12, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (24-14)	1	0	0	3	3	0	0	0	4	11	17	1
New York (11-26)	0	0	0	0	2	2	0	0	0	4	8	2
W: Wandy Rodriguez (4-3) L: Johan Santana (1-4) S: N/A

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: S. Marte (12), N. Walker (9), P. Alvarez HR: S. Marte (2), G. Jones (11), P. Alvarez (10), R. Martin (7) RBI: S. Marte (5), G. Jones 2 (21), P. Alvarez 3 (26), R. Martin 3 (20), T. Snider 2 (15) GIDP: S. Marte
BASERUNNING CS: S. Marte (5)
FIELDING E: G. Jones (3)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
W. Rodriguez (W, 4-3)	7.0	4	4	3	1	8	2.84
T. Watson (H, 2)	1.0	2	0	0	0	2	0.87
D. Welker	1.0	2	0	0	0	3	0.00

New York Mets
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: I. Davis (15) HR: J. Buck (2) RBI: I. Davis 2 (23), J. Buck 2 (4)
FIELDING E: D. Wright 2 (4)

New York Mets
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. Santana (L, 1-4)	4.0	7	5	5	0	3	4.24
Z. Wheeler	1.0	3	2	2	0	0	3.86
B. Lyon	2.0	1	0	0	0	1	2.38
S. Atchison	1.0	1	0	0	0	2	3.38
J. Edgin	0.0	2	2	2	0	0	4.87
L. Hawkins	0.0	1	1	1	0	0	5.55
F. Francisco	1.0	2	1	1	0	1	2.59

Pirates Dominate Mets in Finale of Series Sweep

FLUSHING - The Pirates have outscored the Mets 20-11 in the first three games of the series, as the starting pitching has kept the Mets power hitters at bay. The Pirates turn to Wandy Rodriguez in a battle of ace lefties, as Johan Santana takes the hill for the Mets.

The Bucco's hit the scoreboard first, as Starling Marte took the first pitch he saw from Santana and sent it out of the park for a solo home run, giving the Pirates a 1-0 lead.

With two outs, Pedro Alvarez doubled, but stranded at second as Garret Jones struck out to end the inning. After a scoreless 2nd and 3rd innings, the Pirates got busy offensively, as Pedro Alvarez and Neil Walker both singled and then scored on a 3-run home run from Russell Martin to give the Pirates a 4-0 lead.

In the top of the 5th, Starling Marte led off with a single, followed by a single from Travis Snider, extending his hitting streak to 13 games. The hits would chase Johan Santana, after lasting just 4 innings. Andrew McCutchen then singled, with Starling Marte being called out at home trying to score. Pedro Alvarez then knocked in a 3-run home run to put the Pirates up 7-0.

The Mets struck in the bottom of the 5th, as Ike Davis singled and then scored on a 2-run home run from John Buck to cut the lead to 5.

Then in the 6th, Daniel Murphy led off with a walk, followed by a single from Ruben Tejada. After a strike out from David Wright, Ike Davis doubled, scoring Murphy and Tejada to put the game at 7-4.

The Mets continued their rally attempt in the bottom of the 8th against lefty Tony Watson, as Daniel Murphy singled, followed by a single from Wright. Ike Davis flew out for the second out and then Lucas Duda struck out to end the inning, leaving to a loud chorus of boos.

The Pirates padded their lead to put the game away in the top of the 9th, as a Starling Marte ground rule double put Marte to 3rd. Travis Snider then singled, scoring Sanchez and Marte to put the score at 9-4. Garrett Jones then hit a 2-run home run to put the Pirates ahead 11-4. With a big lead, Duke Welker came in for the 9th, allowing 1 hit, but striking out the side to end the game.

Player of the Game:

On an eight game winning streak, after sweeping the Mets, the Pirates head back home for a ten game home stand, starting with a four game set the Brewers. Kyle Lohse takes the mound for the Brewers, opposing the resurgent James McDonald. First pitch, 7:05PM.

Monday, May 6, 2013

Regular Season Game #37: Pittsburgh Pirates @ New York Mets

Posted on May 6, 2013 at 10:39 PM.

(0)

May 11, 2013
1:10PM

Citi Field - Flushing, NY
Weather: 64�, Partly Cloudy
Attendance: 34,174

Pittsburgh Pirates at New York Mets
May 11, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (23-14)	0	0	3	0	0	0	0	1	0	4	13	0
New York (11-25)	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	1	5	0
W: A.J. Burnett (3-2) L: Matt Harvey (0-4) S: Jason Grilli (13)

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING HR: A. McCutchen (11), P. Alvarez (9) RBI: A. McCutchen (19), P. Alvarez 3 (23) SAC: A. Burnett

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
A. Burnett (W, 3-2)	8.0	5	1	1	0	10	4.23
J. Grilli (S, 13)	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	0.61

New York Mets
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING HR: I. Davis (4) RBI: I. Davis (21) HBP: I. Davis 2 (19), C. Cowgill 3 (6), M. Byrd 2 (19)
BASERUNNING SB: D. Murphy (2)

New York Mets
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
M. Harvey (L, 0-4)	6.0	10	3	3	0	3	3.78
S. Atchison	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	3.51
J. Edgin	0.0	1	1	1	0	0	3.98
L. Hawkins	1.0	1	0	0	0	1	5.18
F. Francisco	1.0	1	0	0	0	1	2.31

Pirates Eye Sweep as Burnett Mows Down Mets in 4-1 Win

FLUSHING - The Pirates have dominated the Mets so far this series. Pirate hitters have dominated Mets pitching, while Pirate pitching has dominated Mets batting. The Mets send their young righty Matt Harvey to the mound to oppose veteran A.J. Burnett in game three of the four game set.

The Mets started the bottom of the 1st with a single by Wilfredo Tovar, followed by a single from Ike Davis with 2 outs. Kirk Nieuwenhuis would run Burnett's count to 2-2, but would line out to end inning. In the top of the 2nd, the Pirates got their bats rolling, as Gaby Sanchez and Russell Martin led off the inning with back to back singles. Clint Barmes then singled, with Gaby Sanchez attempting to score, only to be called out at home. A.J. Burnett would then strike out to end the threat and the inning.

After a scoreless bottom of the 2nd, the Pirates started where they left off in the 2nd, as Starling Marte singled, but was then picked off. Neil Walker then singled, followed by a single from Garrett Jones to put two on with 1 out. Pedro Alvarez stepped in the box against young righty Matt Harvey and welcomed him to the MLB, blasting a 3-run home run to give the Pirates a 3-0 lead.

In the bottom of the 3rd, A.J. Burnett continued to steam roll through the Mets lineup, getting pitcher Matt Harvey to strike out looking to lead off the inning. After a single from David Murphy, Burnett get Wilfredo Tovar and David Wright to strike out looking to end the inning.

The Mets cut the lead to two in the bottom of the 4th, on a solo home run from Ike Davis.

Pitching locked in, as Burnett continued striking out Mets, and Harvey continued battling getting outs in any way he could. But the Pirates would add to the lead off the Mets bullpen in the 8th, as Andrew McCutchen hit a solo home run to push the lead to 4-1.

With A.J. Burnett's pitch count over 110 pitches, Clint Hurdle decided to turn to the bullpen to finish off the game. Coming in looking for his 13th save, Jason Grilli collected three ground outs to end the game and pick up his 13th save on the season. The Pirates win streak has now extended to seven straight.

Player of the Game:

The Pirates and Mets face off in game four, as the Pirates look for a four game sweep, with lefty Johan Santana opposing lefty Wandy Rodriguez. First pitch, 1:10PM.