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Saturday, August 17, 2013

Regular Season Game #121: Arizona Diamondbacks @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on August 17, 2013 at 10:13 PM.

(0)

August 16, 7:05PM ET
PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
TV: ROOT SPORTS RADIO: KDKA-FM 93.7

Weather: 60�, Clear
Attendance: 24,399

Game #121: Arizona Diamondbacks at Pittsburgh Pirates
Aug 16, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	Extras	R	H	E
Arizona (80-40)	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	1	2	8	1
Pittsburgh (70-51)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	1	5	0
W: J.J. Putz (3-1) L: Glen Perkins (1-2) S: Josh Collmenter (1)

Arizona Diamondbacks
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 3B: P. Goldschmidt (2) RBI: A. Hill (67), A. Marte (7) SAC: T. Cahill 2, A. Eaton GIDP: A. Hill
FIELDING E: A. Hill (8)

Arizona Diamondbacks
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
T. Cahill	7.1	3	0	0	0	7	1.89
H. Bell (H, 11)	0.2	0	0	0	0	0	2.66
J. Putz (W, 3-1)	1.0	2	1	1	0	1	2.01
J. Collmenter (S, 1)	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	3.05
TOTALS	10.0	5	1	1	0	9

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: P. Alvarez (26) RBI: P. Alvarez (70) GIDP: J. Sands

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
A. Burnett	8.0	4	1	1	1	5	2.93
G. Perkins (L, 1-2)	1.1	3	1	1	0	1	2.72
B. Morris	0.2	1	0	0	0	0	0.00
TOTALS	10.0	8	2	2	1	6

Pirates Rally in 9th, But Drop Series Opener to D-Backs in 10th

PITTSBURGH - After dropping two of three in St. Louis, the Pirates needed to stop back at home for a three game weekend series against the Diamondbacks, before heading back out west. Typically, coming back to PNC Park would be a way to get back on track, but awaiting the Bucco's was the MLB leading Arizona Diamondbacks. A.J. Burnett took the mound to oppose Trevor Cahill.

A pitchers dual was written all over this game. After a quick 1-2-3 inning from A.J. Burnett in the top of the 1st, Andrew McCutchen got the Pirates into the hit column with two outs in the bottom of the 1st, hitting a single to shortstop. But a Pedro Alvarez ground out would quickly end the inning. In the top of the 3rd, Cody Ross got the D-Backs in the hit column with a single, but would be stranded after an Easley strike out and ground outs from Cahhill and Prado.

The 4th, 5th, and 6th innings quickly flew by, as Burnett and Cahill each retired the sides in order. In the top of the 7th, Paul Goldschmidt led off with a triple, then scoring on a one out single from Aaron Hill to give the Diamondbacks a 1-0 lead.

With the lead heading into the 9th, Glen Perkins allowed a leadoff single to Goldschmidt, followed by a single from Alex Rios to put two on with no outs. Perkins would then get Hill to ground into a double play for two quick outs. JJ Hardy would strike out to end the top half of the inning. Down to their final three outs in the bottom of the 9th, Asdrubal Cabrera singled with one out. Then, with two outs and a 3-2 count, Pedro Alvarez doubled to deep right, scoring Cabrera, tying the game at one.

Garrett Jones would strike out for the last out in the 9th, sending the game to extras. Immediately in the top of the 10th, Cody Ross singled to lead off the inning, then was sacrificed to second by Eaton. Pinch hitter Alfredo Marte then singled to right, scoring Ross to give the Diamondbacks a 2-1 lead.

Josh Collmenter came in for the Diamondbacks in the bottom of the 10th and made quick work of the Bucs, getting Walker to fly out, Russell Martin to strike out, and Andrew Lambo to pop out to end the game and send the Bucco's to their third straight loss.

Player of the Game

With an extra innings loss in game one, the Pirates look to rebound in game two of the series, as Wandy Rodriguez takes the mound to oppose Brandon McCarthy. First pitch, 4:05PM.

The Hunt for October - Updated: August 16, 2013
NL CENTRAL	W	L	GB	RS	RA
Pittsburgh	70	51	-	415	368
St. Louis	63	58	7.0	501	446
Cincinnati	62	60	8.5	536	559
Chicago	51	70	19.0	463	549
Milwaukee	50	72	20.5	466	538

Friday, August 16, 2013

Series Preview: Arizona Diamondbacks @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on August 16, 2013 at 07:49 PM.

(0)

Series Preview | August 16-18, 2013

Arizona Diamondbacks
(79-40, 33-24 Away)

Pittsburgh Pirates
(70-50, 35-26 Home)

Team Comparison
.268	AVG	.266
.332	OBP	.278
.425	SLG	.438
3.03	ERA	2.65

Pitching Probables
Cahill (5-2, 2.11)	Game 1	Burnett (11-6, 3.02)
McCarthy (8-7, 3.87)	Game 2	Rodriguez (12-7, 2.35)
Kennedy (11-5, 2.91)	Game 3	McDonald (12-6, 1.54)

Game Notes
- The Pirates, 4-6 in their last ten games, are on a two game losing streak and now hold an 8 game lead over the Cardinals and an 8.5 game lead over the Reds for first place in the NL Central. - The Diamondbakcs, 7-3 in their last ten games, are on a two game winning streak and hold a 13.5 game lead over the Dodgers for first place in the NL West. - This is the second and final meeting of the year between the Pirates and Diamondbakcs. The Diamondbacks swept the Pirates in Arizona back in April.

Regular Season Game #120: Pittsburgh Pirates @ St. Louis Cardinals

Posted on August 16, 2013 at 05:22 PM.

(0)

August 15, 1:45PM ET
Busch Stadium - St. Louis, MO
TV: ROOT SPORTS RADIO: KDKA-FM 93.7

Weather: 83�, Partly Cloudy
Attendance: 34,196

Game #120: Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals
Aug 15, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	Extras	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (70-50)	0	1	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0 0 0 0 0	2	14	0
St. Louis (62-58)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	1	0 0 0 0 1	3	10	0
W: Jason Motte (1-2) L: Tony Watson (4-4) S: N/A

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: A. Cabrera 2 (21), G. Jones (18), J. Tabata (5) HR: R. Martin (19) RBI: G. Jones (58), R. Martin (42) GIDP: N. Walker 2
BASERUNNING SB: J. Tabata 2 (9)
FIELDING PB: R. Martin (4)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
G. Cole	8.0	5	1	1	1	11	1.66
J. Grilli (BS, 6)	1.0	1	1	1	0	0	1.25
C. Leroux	2.0	1	0	0	0	2	2.64
D. Welker	2.0	1	0	0	0	1	0.73
T. Watson (L, 4-4)	0.0	2	1	1	0	0	5.01
TOTALS	13.0	10	3	3	1	14
PITCHING WP: T. Watson (1)

St. Louis Cardinals
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: A. Craig (37), C. Beltran (17) HR: A. Craig (12) RBI: M. Holliday (61), A. Craig (60), D. Gordon (17)
BASERUNNING SB: D. Gordon (18) CS: J. Jay (2)

St. Louis Cardinals
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. Westbrook	6.0	5	2	2	1	8	3.69
T. Rosenthal	1.0	2	0	0	0	0	2.57
F. Salas	0.1	2	0	0	1	0	4.14
R. Choate	0.2	0	0	0	1	1	1.62
E. Sanchez	2.0	1	0	0	0	3	3.00
M. Guerrier	3.0	4	0	0	0	3	3.35
J. Motte (W, 1-2)	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	3.18
TOTALS	14.0	14	2	2	3	15
PITCHING WP: J. Westbrook (2)

Cole's Dominant Start Overshadowed by Cards Walk-Off Win

ST. LOUIS - The Pirates and Cardinals split the first two games of the series, with each divisional win a step toward the division crown. After getting drubbed in game two of the series, the Pirates looked to rebound and take the rubber match, sending Gerrit Cole to the mound to oppose Jake Westbrook.

Westbrook came out strong in the top of the 1st, striking out Jose Tabata to lead off the inning. After an Asdrubal Cabrera walk, Andrew McCutchen struck out and Garrett Jones grounded out to end the top half of the inning. The bottom of the 1st was much better for Cole, who would get Gordon to fly out, followed by strikeouts by Jay and Craig to end the inning.

In the top of the 2nd, Pedro Alvarez led off with a single, only to fall victim to a Neil Walker double play for two quick outs. But Russell Martin would then hit a solo shot to left field, giving the Pirates a 1-0 lead.

In the bottom of the 2nd, Cole would strike out Holliday, only to then allow a single to Yadier Molina. Molina would be stranded at first, as Cole would strike out Freese and Beltran to end the 2nd. Pitching locked into through the 5th inning, as Cole and Westbrook retired the sides in order. In the top of the 6th, Jose Tabata led off with a single, then stole second with no one out. Westbrook would then strike out Cabrera and McCutchen for the first and second outs. Garrett Jones followed the strikeouts with a double to right, scoring Tabata to put the Pirates ahead 2-0.

With the Pirates still up 2-0 heading into the bottom of the 8th, Chris Carpenter singled with one away. Gordon would hit a two out single off of Cole, scoring Carpenter to bring the Cardinals to within one.

After Sanchez made quick work of the Pirates in the top of the 9th, Jason Grilli came on looking for his 42nd save of the season. Unfortunately, the hope of that would quickly go by the way, as Allen Craig hit a solo blast, tying the game at two.

The Pirates and Cardinals would battle and grind through the 13th inning, keeping the game tied at two heading into the 14th. Jason Motte would come in to pitch for the Red Birds in the top of the 14th, getting Martin, Gaby Sanchez, and Tony Sanchez to ground out to end the inning. Tony Watson came on to pitch the bottom of the 14th, and would allow an immediate double to Craig, who would then reach third on a wild pitch. Matt Holliday would then single, scoring Craig to give the Cardinals the walk-off, extra inning win.

Player of the Game

After dropping the series in St. Louis, the Pirates head back home for a three game series against the Diamondbacks. Game one features A.J. Burnett against Trevor Cahill. First pitch, 7:05PM.

The Hunt for October - Updated: August 15, 2013
NL CENTRAL	W	L	GB	RS	RA
Pittsburgh	70	50	-	414	366
St. Louis	62	58	8.0	487	445
Cincinnati	62	59	8.5	534	555
Chicago	51	69	19.0	462	535
Milwaukee	49	72	21.5	462	536

Thursday, August 15, 2013

Regular Season Game #119: Pittsburgh Pirates @ St. Louis Cardinals

Posted on August 15, 2013 at 07:44 PM.

(0)

August 14, 8:15PM ET
Busch Stadium - St. Louis, MO
TV: ROOT SPORTS RADIO: KDKA-FM 93.7

Weather: 71�, Clear
Attendance: 34,963

Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals
Aug 14, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (70-49)	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	1	6	0
St. Louis (61-58)	4	0	0	0	1	0	0	3	X	8	9	0
W: Joe Kelly (1-3) L: Francisco Liriano (6-5) S: N/A

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: A. Cabrera (19), G. Jones (17) RBI: A. Cabrera (34) SAC: F. Liriano

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
F. Liriano (L, 6-5)	5.0	6	5	5	1	7	2.80
C. Leroux	2.0	0	0	0	0	1	2.76
B. Wilson	1.0	3	3	3	0	1	4.32
TOTALS	8.0	9	8	8	1	9
PITCHING WP: F. Liriano (2)

St. Louis Cardinals
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: A. Craig (36), D. Freese (21), M. Holliday (19), M. Carpenter (14) HR: Y. Molina 2 (20) RBI: Y. Molina 5 (66), D. Freese 2 (59), M. Carpenter (30) SAC: J. Kelly
BASERUNNING SB: J. Jay (17)

St. Louis Cardinals
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. Kelly (W, 1-3)	9.0	6	1	1	0	3	3.47
TOTALS	9.0	6	1	1	0	3

Molina's Two Homers Power Cardinals Past Pirates

ST. LOUIS - With a little over a month and a half left in this long season, any divisional series is crucial when competing for a playoff spot. Heading into the series, the Pirates held a nine game lead over the Cardinals. After winning game one in dominating fashion, the Pirates were able to increase their lead to ten games. Looking to extend their lead further, the Pirates sent Francisco Liriano to the mound to oppose Joe Kelly.

After a quick top of the 1st from Joe Kelly, Chris Carpenter doubled with one out in the bottom of the 1st. Allen Craig then reached on a fielder's choice, followed by Matt Holliday who reached in similar fashion. David Freese then singled, scoring Carpenter to give the Cardinals a quick 1-0 lead.

Yadier Molina then hit a three-run bomb to left field, pushing the Cardinals ahead 4-0.

Francisco Liriano was able to settle down for the next few innings, as he and Joe Kelly were able to retire the sides in order. In the bottom of the 5th, John Jay hit a bunt single to lead off the inning, then stealing second with Carpenter at the plate. Carpenter would fly out to right fielder Andrew Lambo, who would mishandle the ball in the throw towards home, allowing Jay to score, putting the Cardinals ahead 5-0.

In the top of the 6th, Jose Tabata singled with two outs, then scoring on an RBI double by Asdrubal Cabrera to put the Pirates on the board.

After a scoreless two innings pitched from Christopher Leroux, former closer Brian Wilson was called upon for the 8th inning. After striking out Allen Craig, Matt Holliday doubled to center, followed by a double from David Freese, scoring Holliday, putting the Red Birds ahead 6-1. Yadier Molina would then crush a two-run shot to center field, extending the Cards lead to 8-1.

With the Pirates down to their last three outs of the game, Garrett Jones doubled with two outs, followed by a single from Pedro Alvarez. Jones would be called out at home trying to score on the single, ending the rally and the game.

Player of the Game

With the series split at a game a piece, the Pirates send Gerrit Cole to the mound to oppose Jake Westbrook, as each team looks to take the series. First pitch, 1:45PM.

The Hunt for October - Updated: August 15, 2013
NL CENTRAL	W	L	GB	RS	RA
Pittsburgh	70	49	-	412	363
St. Louis	61	58	9.0	484	443
Cincinnati	61	59	9.5	530	552
Chicago	51	69	19.5	462	535
Milwaukee	49	71	21.5	459	532

Injury Update: 8/14/2013

Posted on August 15, 2013 at 01:50 AM.

(0)

by Tom Singer / MLB.com / August 14, 2013

After leaving Wednesday's game, outfielder Travis Snider has been placed on the 15-Day DL with a broken shin.

In a related move, the Pirates have promoted outfielder Andrew Lambo to the major league club.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Regular Season Game #118: Pittsburgh Pirates @ St. Louis Cardinals

Posted on August 14, 2013 at 11:24 PM.

(0)

August 13, 8:15PM ET
Busch Stadium - St. Louis, MO
TV: ROOT SPORTS RADIO: KDKA-FM 93.7

Weather: 80�, Clear
Attendance: 31,907

Game #118: Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals
Aug 13, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (70-48)	2	0	1	3	0	0	0	0	0	6	10	0
St. Louis (60-58)	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	7	1
W: James McDonald (12-6) L: Mitchell Boggs (2-6) S: N/A

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: A. McCutchen (31), N. Walker (17), J. Tabata (4) HR: A. McCutchen (33), G. Jones (30) RBI: P. Alvarez (69), A. McCutchen 2 (64), G. Jones 2 (57), J. Tabata (2)
BASERUNNING CS: J. Tabata (1)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. McDonald (W, 12-6)	7.0	6	1	1	2	7	1.54
B. Morris	2.0	1	0	0	0	1	0.00
TOTALS	9.0	7	1	1	2	8

St. Louis Cardinals
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: C. Beltran (16) RBI: M. Holliday (60)
BASERUNNING SB: D. Gordon (17)
FIELDING E: D. Gordon (6)

St. Louis Cardinals
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
M. Boggs (L, 2-6)	3.2	9	6	4	0	3	5.26
J. Gast	1.1	0	0	0	0	3	0.00
T. Rosenthal	2.0	0	0	0	0	3	2.70
R. Choate	2.0	1	0	0	0	0	1.64
TOTALS	9.0	10	6	4	0	9

Bucs Flex Muscles Against Cards in 6-1 Win

ST. LOUIS - Having a day off after a loss, especially the way the Pirates lost in the series finale against Colorado, sure isn't a fun day. With the game tied in the 11th, a Neil Walker error allowed the Rockies to get the victory and avoid the Bucco sweep. The Pirates looked to rebound in game one of the three game set against the Cardinals, as James McDonald took the mound to oppose Wade Boggs.

In the top of the 1st, with one away, Asdrubal Cabrera reached first on a throwing error by Gordon. Andrew McCutchen followed with a double. Pedro Alvarez then grounded out, scoring Cabrera to give the Pirates a 1-0 lead. The Pirates would continue to add on, as Garrett Jones singled to center, scoring McCutchen, giving the Pirates a 2-0 lead.

After a scoreless second inning, Garrett Jones hit a two out solo shot to give the Pirates a 3-0 lead.

The three run lead would give the Pirates a nice cushion heading into the bottom of the inning. After a Gordon single, Jay grounded out for the second out of the inning. Allen Craig was then walked on six pitches. Matt Holliday then singled to left, scoring Gordon to cut the Pirates lead to two.

Wade Boggs would get rocked quickly in the top of the 4th, as Asdrubal Cabrera led off with a single, followed by a strikeout of James McDonald. With one away, Jose Tabata doubled to deep let, scoring Snider, pushing the Pirates lead from 4-0 lead. Andrew McCutchen would then hit a two out, two run homer, pushing the Pirates ahead 6-1.

Neither offense could get anything going for the remaining innings of the game, as James McDonald pitched a solid seven innings of work, followed by two shutout innings from Bryan Morris. In the top of the 9th with one away, Carlos Beltran hit a ground rule double, followed by a ground out from Carpenter and a pop out from Furcal to end the game.

Player of the Game

After taking game one of the three game series, the Pirates send Francisco Liriano to the mound to oppose Joe Kelly in game two. First pitch, 8:15PM.

The Hunt for October - Updated: August 13, 2013
NL CENTRAL	W	L	GB	RS	RA
Pittsburgh	70	48	-	411	355
St. Louis	60	58	10.0	476	442
Cincinnati	60	59	10.5	524	549
Chicago	51	68	19.5	459	529
Milwaukee	48	71	22.5	452	526

Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Series Preview: Pittsburgh Pirates @ St. Louis Cardinals

Posted on August 13, 2013 at 10:43 PM.

(0)

Series Preview | August 13-15, 2013

Pittsburgh Pirates
(69-48, 34-22 Away)

St. Louis Cardinals
(60-57, 29-27 Home)

Team Comparison
.267	AVG	.255
.278	OBP	.310
.439	SLG	.385
2.62	ERA	3.42

Pitching Probables
McDonald (11-6, 1.55)	Game 1	Boggs (2-5, 4.99)
Liriano (6-4, 2.52)	Game 2	Kelly (0-3, 3.82)
Cole (6-2, 1.71)	Game 3	Westbrook (9-9, 3.72)

Game Notes
- The Pirates, 5-5 in their last ten games, hold a 9 game lead over the Cardinals and a 10.5 game lead over the Reds for first place in the NL Central. - The Cardinals, 5-5 in their last ten games, trail the Pirates by 9 games in the NL Central and trail the Phillies by 1.5 games for the second wild card position. - The Pirates and Cardinals have 9 more meetings this season; also the number of games the Pirates are ahead of the Cardinals.

Regular Season Game #117: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Colorado Rockies

Posted on August 13, 2013 at 08:37 PM.

(0)

August 11, 4:10PM ET
Coors Field - Denver, CO
TV: ROOT SPORTS RADIO: KDKA-FM 93.7

Weather: 60�, Clear
Attendance: 19,200

Pittsburgh Pirates at Colorado Rockies
Aug 11, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	Extras	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (69-48)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	1 0	2	12	2
Colorado (60-59)	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	1 1	3	8	0
W: Edgmer Escalona (4-11) L: Duke Welker (2-1) S: N/A

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: A. Cabrera (18), N. Walker (16) RBI: G. Sanchez (21), N. Walker (16) HBP: T. Sanchez SF: G. Sanchez SAC: W. Rodriguez GIDP: A. McCutchen, P. Alvarez
BASERUNNING SB: A. McCutchen (33)
FIELDING E: A. Cabrera (10), N. Walker (5)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
W. Rodriguez	7.0	4	1	1	0	4	2.35
B. Morris	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
T. Watson	1.0	1	0	0	0	2	4.63
J. Grilli (BS, 5)	1.0	1	1	1	0	1	1.09
D. Welker (L, 2-1)	0.2	2	1	1	1	1	0.77
TOTALS	10.2	8	3	3	1	8

Colorado Rockies
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: W. Rosario (18) 3B: E. Young Jr. (3) HR: T. Tulowitzki (13), Y. Torrealba (4) RBI: T. Tulowitzki (48), J. Loney (46), Y. Torrealba (19) SAC: C. Friedrich GIDP: W. Rosario

Colorado Rockies
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
C. Friedrich	6.0	7	0	0	2	1	4.37
A. Alburquerque (H, 7)	1.0	2	0	0	0	1	3.31
R. Brothers (BS, 5)	0.2	2	1	1	0	0	3.81
M. Belisle	0.1	0	0	0	0	0	3.44
R. Betancourt	2.0	1	1	1	0	3	1.33
E. Escalona (W, 4-11)	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	3.21
TOTALS	11.0	12	2	2	2	4
PITCHING WP: C. Friedrich (1)

Rockies Avoid Sweep on Walker's 11th Inning Blunder

DENVER - With the series already wrapped up, the Pirates gave some of the starters an extra day of rest, as the "B" team took the field to back Wandy Rodriguez. Taking the mound for the Rockies, Christian Friedrich, looking to keep the Rox from the series sweep.

Pitching had the upper hand in the early innings, as Wandy Rodriguez and Christian Friedrich were locked into a pitchers duel through the 3rd inning. In the top of the 4th, Garrett Jones led off with a single, followed by a strikeout from Pedro Alvarez. Neil Walker then walked on six pitches to put two on with two away. Tony Sanchez then ground into a double play to end the top half of the inning. In the bottom of the 4th, after a Dexter Fowler fly out, Troy Tulowitzki hit a solo shot to left, giving the Rockies a 1-0 lead.

Pitching again locked in through the top of the 7th, when the Pirates started to make some noise. Tony Sanchez was hit by a pitch to lead off the inning, followed by a one out single from Travis Snider to put two on. Wandy Rodriguez then hit a bunt single to load the bases. But a pinch hitting Andrew McCutchen would ground into a double play to end the threat.

In the top of the 8th, Asdrubal Cabrera doubled to center, then scoring on a two out double from Neil Walker to tie the game at one.

In the top of the 10th, Andrew McCutchen led off with a single, followed by a steal of second with Cabrera bating. After Cabrera flew out, Gaby Sanchez hit a sac fly, scoring McCutchen to give the Pirates the 2-1 lead.

Jason Grilli took over in the bottom of the 10th, looking to shut the door on the Rockies. After getting Michael Cuddyer to strike out, Torrealba took Grilli deep for a solo shot, tying the game at two.

After a scoreless top of the 11th, Eric Young Jr. led off with a triple. Duke Welker would then get Fowler to strikeout, followed by a walk issued to Tulowitzki. Gonzalez would then reach first on a fielders choice, as Young Jr was out at home. James Loney then hit a ground ball that deflected off of Neil Walker for a single. Walker was unable to get the ball to home in time as Tulowitzki would score, giving the Rockies the walk off victory.

Player of the Game

After dropping the finale of the three game set with the Rockies, the Pirates have Monday off before heading to St. Louis for a crucial three game set. Game one features James McDonald opposing Wade Boggs. First pitch, 8:15PM.

The Hunt for October - Updated: August 11, 2013
NL CENTRAL	W	L	GB	RS	RA
Pittsburgh	69	48	-	405	354
St. Louis	60	57	9.0	475	436
Cincinnati	58	59	11.0	512	542
Chicago	51	66	18.0	452	517
Milwaukee	48	70	21.5	448	520

Monday, August 12, 2013

Regular Season Game #116: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Colorado Rockies

Posted on August 12, 2013 at 09:30 PM.

(0)

August 10, 8:10PM ET
Coors Field - Denver, CO
TV: ROOT SPORTS RADIO: KDKA-FM 93.7

Weather: 52�, Clear
Attendance: 19,310

Game #116: Pittsburgh Pirates at Colorado Rockies
Aug 10, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (69-47)	0	2	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	3	6	0
Colorado (59-59)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	6	0
W: A.J. Burnett (11-6) L: Jose Fernandez (10-10) S: N/A

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: A. McCutchen (30) 3B: A. McCutchen (2), R. Martin (1) HR: G. Jones (29) RBI: P. Alvarez (68), G. Jones (55), J. Sands (3)
BASERUNNING SB: A. Cabrera (8)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
A. Burnett (W, 11-6)	9.0	6	0	0	0	10	3.02
TOTALS	9.0	6	0	0	0	10

Colorado Rockies
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: D. Fowler (27)

Colorado Rockies
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. Fernandez (L, 10-10)	5.0	3	3	3	1	4	3.48
R. Brothers	1.0	1	0	0	0	1	3.70
E. Escalona	2.0	2	0	0	0	4	3.25
J. Francis	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	4.76
TOTALS	9.0	6	3	3	1	10

Burnett Throws Complete Game Gem in Shut-Out of Rockies

DENVER - The Pirates narrowly escaped the Rockies in game one of the series, as Glen Perkins escaped a bases loaded jam to give the Pirates a 4-3 lead. After dropping two of three from the Marlins before heading out on the road trip, Pirate fans were hoping to have an easy series with the Rockies before heading down to St. Louis. The Bucs put the ball in the hand of their ace A.J. Burnett, as they look to take game two.

The pitching matchup of young righty Jose Fernandez against veteran righty A.J. Burnett was quite intriguing on paper. The 1st inning of the game, played out as most expected, as Fernandez and Burnett retired the sides in order. In the top of the 2nd, after a Pedro Alvarez fly out, Garrett Jones hit a solo shot to left, giving the Pirates a 1-0 lead.

Russell Martin tripled to center, then scoring on a ground out by Jerry Sands to push the Pirates lead to 2-0.

Burnett would continue is dominance in the bottom half of the inning, getting Loney and Nelson to ground out, as well as Cuddyer to fly out. After a scoreless 3rd, Andrew McCutchen led off the bottom of the 4th with a triple, then scoring on a ground out by Pedro Alvarez to give the Pirates a 3-0 lead.

The 5th inning continued as a pitchers dual, as neither side was able to muster any hits. In the top of the 6th, with one out, Andrew McCutchen doubled to center, but was called out while advancing to third. Pedro Alvarez would ground out to end the inning. The Rockies were finally able to get something going against Burnett in the top of the 8th, as Nelson and Torrealba each singled to lead off the inning. Burnett would then do the unthinkable, striking out Young Jr., Pacheco, and Fowler to end the Rockies rally.

Clint Hurdle would leave Burnett in for the 9th, hoping to keep the bullpen out of action for the day. Burnett would make quick work of the Rox, getting Tulowitzki to strike out, Gonzalez to fly out, and Cuddyer to pop out to end the game.

Player of the Game

After taking the first two games of the series, the Pirates look to take the three game sweep tomorrow afternoon. First pitch, 4:10PM.

The Hunt for October - Updated: August 7, 2013
NL CENTRAL	W	L	GB	RS	RA
Pittsburgh	69	47	-	403	351
St. Louis	60	56	9.0	471	428
Cincinnati	57	59	12.0	510	542
Chicago	50	66	19.0	444	513
Milwaukee	48	69	21.5	444	512

Sunday, August 11, 2013

Regular Season Game #115: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Colorado Rockies

Posted on August 11, 2013 at 12:12 AM.

(0)

August 9, 8:40PM ET
Coors Field - Denver, CO
TV: ROOT SPORTS RADIO: KDKA-FM 93.7

Weather: 63�, Clear
Attendance: 15,485

Game #115: Pittsburgh Pirates at Colorado Rockies
Aug 9, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Pittsburgh (68-47)	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	2	0	4	10	1
Colorado (59-58)	0	0	0	0	1	1	0	1	0	3	11	0
W: Gerrit Cole (6-2) L: Edgmer Escalona (3-11) S: Glen Perkins (38)

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: A. McCutchen (29), P. Alvarez (25), N. Walker (15), T. Snider (13) 3B: A. Cabrera (2) HR: P. Alvarez (31) RBI: P. Alvarez 2 (67), A. McCutchen 2 (62) GIDP: R. Martin
FIELDING E: N. Walker (4)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
G. Cole (W, 6-2)	7.0	7	2	2	1	6	1.71
C. Leroux (H, 4)	0.2	3	1	1	1	0	2.89
D. Welker (H, 12)	0.1	0	0	0	0	0	0.52
G. Perkins (S, 38)	1.0	1	0	0	0	0	2.59
TOTALS	9.0	11	3	3	2	6

Colorado Rockies
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: T. Tulowitzki (23), C. Nelson (8) RBI: C. Gonzalez (80), M. Cuddyer (40), Y. Torrealba (18) GIDP: Y. Torrealba
BASERUNNING SB: E. Young Jr. (29)

Colorado Rockies
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. De La Rosa	7.0	7	2	2	0	6	4.44
E. Escalona (L, 3-11)	0.2	3	2	2	0	1	3.34
A. Alburquerque	1.1	0	0	0	0	2	3.38
TOTALS	9.0	10	4	4	0	9

Pirates Fend Off Late Rally to Hang on for 4-3 Win

DENVER - The Pittsburgh Pirates have looked far from a playoff team in their past two series, winning only two of the last six. Offensive struggles and a recent decline in pitching, have Pirates fans worrying that another collapse is coming. Kicking off the road trip, the Pirates head into Colorado, seeking revenge from losing two of three from the Rockies at PNC.

In the top of the 1st inning, Neil Walker doubled to left with one out. After Andrew McCutchen struck out, Pedro Alvarez hit a two run bomb to left, scoring Walker, giving the Pirates an early 2-0 lead.

Gerrit Cole and Jorge De La Rosa battled back and forth through the fourth inning. In the bottom of the 5th, Nelson hit a double with one out, then scoring on a single from Torrealba to cut the Pirates lead to one.

After a quick top of the 6th, Troy Tulowitzki singled with one away, followed by a single from Carloz Gonzalez. James Loney then flew out, advancing Tulo to third. Michael Cuddyer then singled, scoring Gonzalez to tie the game at two.

Not much action in the 7th would lead to lots of action in the 8th. After Travis Snider struck out and Jerry Sands flew out, Asdrubal Cabrera singled, followed by a single from Neil Walker. Andrew McCutchen then hit a bases clearing double, scoring Walker and Cabrera, giving the Pirates a 4-2 lead.

In the bottom of the 8th, Troy Tulowitzki doubled with one away, then scoring on a single from Gonzalez to bring the Rockies to within one.

With pinch runner Young Jr. on second, James Loney walked, putting two on with two outs. Nelson then grounded out to end the inning. With the Pirates still ahead by one, the Colorado Rockies were down to their final three outs against fill-in closer Glen Perkins. With one away, Rosario singled, followed by Pacheco reaching on a fielders choice. Dexter Fowler then reached first on a fielding error by Neil Walker, putting two on with two away. Perkins would then get the biggest out of the day, getting Troy Tulowitzki to ground out by a foot to end the game and seal the Pirates victory.

Player of the Game

After narrowly escaping the Rockies in game one, the Pirates send A.J. Burnett to the mound to oppose Jose Fernandez in game two. First pitch, 8:10PM.

The Hunt for October - Updated: August 7, 2013
NL CENTRAL	W	L	GB	RS	RA
Pittsburgh	68	47	-	400	351
St. Louis	59	56	9.0	466	427
Cincinnati	57	58	11.0	507	536
Chicago	50	65	18.0	443	508
Milwaukee	48	68	20.5	444	510

Saturday, August 10, 2013

Series Preview: Pittsburgh Pirates @ Colorado Rockies

Posted on August 10, 2013 at 01:16 AM.

(0)

Series Preview | August 9-11, 2013

Pittsburgh Pirates
(67-47, 32-21 Away)

Colorado Rockies
(59-57, 7-3 Home)

Team Comparison
.267	AVG	.266
.278	OBP	.324
.438	SLG	.420
2.64	ERA	3.77

Pitching Probables
Cole (5-2, 1.63)	Game 1	De La Rosa (10-10, 4.53)
Burnett (10-6, 3.19)	Game 2	Fernandez (10-9, 3.41)
Rodriguez (12-7, 2.39)	Game 3	Friedrich (5-6, 4.58)

Game Notes
- The Pirates, 5-5 in their last ten games, hold a 8 game lead over the Cardinals and a 10 game lead over the Reds for first place in the NL Central. - The Rockies, 7-3 in their last ten games, trail the Diamondbacks by 17.5 games in the NL West.

Friday, August 9, 2013

Regular Season Game #114: Miami Marlins @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on August 9, 2013 at 10:48 PM.

(0)

August 8, 12:35PM ET
PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
TV: ROOT SPORTS RADIO: KDKA-FM 93.7

Weather: 77�, Cloudy
Attendance: 21,852

Game #114: Miami Marlins at Pittsburgh Pirates
Aug 8, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Miami (39-75)	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	2	3	11	1
Pittsburgh (67-47)	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	1	0	2	10	3
W: Ryan Webb (3-5) L: Jason Grilli (0-1) S: Steve Cishek (22)

Miami Marlins
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: D. Solano (12) RBI: J. Pierre (37), A. Kearns 2 (37) HBP: G. Stanton SAC: N. Eovaldi 2
FIELDING E: R. Brantly (5)

Miami Marlins
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
N. Eovaldi	6.1	7	1	1	1	8	4.13
J. Rauch	0.2	1	0	0	0	1	3.34
W. Lopez	0.1	2	1	1	0	0	2.85
R. Webb (W, 3-5)	0.2	0	0	0	0	0	4.96
M. Dunn (H, 6)	0.1	0	0	0	0	0	5.54
S. Cishek (S, 23)	0.2	0	0	0	0	1	0.99
TOTALS	9.0	10	2	2	1	10
PITCHING WP: N. Eovaldi (1)

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: A. McCutchen (28), P. Alvarez (24), N. Walker (14), J. Sands (2) HR: A. Cabrera (13) RBI: A. Cabrera (33), N. Walker (15) GIDP: P. Alvarez
BASERUNNING SB: J. Tabata (7)
FIELDING E: P. Alvarez 2 (6), J. Tabata (3) PB: R. Martin (3)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
F. Liriano	5.2	7	1	1	1	5	2.52
B. Morris	1.1	2	0	0	0	2	0.00
C. Leroux	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	2.72
J. Grilli (L, 0-1)	1.0	2	2	0	1	1	0.93
TOTALS	9.0	11	3	1	2	8

Offensive & Defensive Woes Haunt Pirates as Lowly Marlins Take Series

PITTSBURGH - After dropping their series against the Colorado Rockies, the Pirates looked to turn things around against the lowly Marlins. Thus far, the Pirates and Marlins have split the first two games of the series, with the Pirates not showing many signs of life. Pitching has started to slightly tail off and the offensive bats have gone quiet. The Bucs will turn to pitcher Francisco Liriano to take the mound against Nathan Eovaldi.

The 1st inning showcased a variety of pitches, speeds, movement, etc from each pitcher. Liriano allowed a walk, but would get two strikeouts to end the top half. Asdrubal Cabrera would single in the bottom of the 1st, followed by a single from Andrew McCutchen to put two on with one out. But the big guns couldn't come up big, as Pedro Alvarez struck out and Garrett Jones grounded out to end the inning.

The second and third innings were quiet from the run scoring angle; however, each pitcher's pitch count was getting high. In the top of the 4th, Placido Polanco singled with one out. Pitcher Eovaldi singled with two outs, advancing Polanoc to 3rd. Juan Pierre then singled, scoring Eovaldi to give the Marlins a 1-0 lead.

After the run scored, the Pirates would start to make some noise in the bottom of the 5th, as Asdrubal Cabrera hit a solo shot to right field, tying the game at one.

Andrew McCutchen would follow the home run with a double, but would be called out in a double play run down to end the inning. After a scoreless 6th and 7th innings, the Pirates got things going in the bottom of the 8th. Pedro Alvarez led off with a double, followed by a ground out from Jones that would advance Alvarez to 3rd. Neil Walker followed that up with a single, scoring Alvarez to give the Pirates a 1-0 lead.

With the Pirates holding onto a one run lead in the top of the 9th, manager Clint Hurdle called for Jason Grilli to come out of the pen, looking to collect his 42nd save. Hechavarria first reached on a throwing error by Pedro Alvarez. Solano then singled, putting two on with no out. Stanton then reached first on an error - Solano out. Brantly then had a six pitch walk, loading the bases for Austin Kearns. Kearns doubled to right, scoring Hechavarria and Coughlan to give the Marlins a 3-2 lead.

The Pirates couldn't do a thing in the bottom of the 9th, as there was a strike out, ground out, and another strikeout to end the game and drop the series.

Player of the Game

After losing series' to the Rockies and Marlins, the Pirates head out to west for a face the Rockies in a three game set. Game one features Gerrit Cole against Jorge De La Rosa. First pitch, 8:40PM.

The Hunt for October - Updated: August 7, 2013
NL CENTRAL	W	L	GB	RS	RA
Pittsburgh	67	47	-	396	348
St. Louis	59	55	8.0	461	421
Cincinnati	57	57	10.0	503	527
Chicago	49	65	18.0	437	503
Milwaukee	47	68	20.5	438	508

Thursday, August 8, 2013

Regular Season Game #113: Miami Marlins @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on August 8, 2013 at 09:59 PM.

(0)

August 7, 7:05 PM ET
PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
TV: ROOT SPORTS RADIO: KDKA-FM 93.7

Weather: 61�, Clear
Attendance: 21,115

Game #113: Miami Marlins at Pittsburgh Pirates
Aug 7, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Miami (38-75)	0	1	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	2	5	0
Pittsburgh (67-46)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	9	1
W: Jeff Karstens (3-3) L: James McDonald (11-6) S: Steve Cishek (22)

Miami Marlins
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: J. Karstens (1) RBI: G. Dobbs (31), A. Hechavarria (26) SAC: J. Karstens

Miami Marlins
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. Karstens (W, 3-3)	6.2	6	0	0	3	9	4.12
C. Qualls (H, 5)	1.0	1	0	0	0	0	4.05
M. Dunn (H, 5)	0.1	0	0	0	0	0	5.57
S. Cishek (S, 22)	1.0	2	0	0	0	0	1.01
TOTALS	9.0	9	0	0	3	9

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING GIDP: G. Sanchez, T. Snider
BASERUNNING SB: J. Tabata (6), B. Inge (1)
FIELDING E: C. Barmes (10)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. McDonald (L, 11-6)	6.0	5	2	0	2	11	1.55
B. Morris	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	0.00
2.0	0	0	0	0	1	3	1.23
TOTALS	9.0	5	2	0	3	15
PITCHING WP: J. McDonald (4)

Former Bucco Karstens Stiffles Pirates in Shutout

PITTSBURGH - After scoring three runs in the bottom of the 1st inning in game one, the Pirates were offensively shut down by Marlins pitching. The Pirates looked to get going in game two, as they would be facing former Pirate Jeff Karstens.

James McDonald looked like a CY Young candidate in the top of the 1st, striking out Solano and Coghlan back to back, followed by a ground out from Stanton to end the top half of the inning. In the bottom of the 1st, Neil Walker walked with one out, followed by a single from Andrew McCutchen, putting runners on second and third. After Pedro Alvarez popped out, Garrett Jones struck out to end the inning.

The top of the 2nd started off poorly for the Bucs, as Brantly reached first on a throwing error by Clint Barmes. Austin Kearns singled with one out, advancing Brantly to second. After a Dobbs strikeout, Hechavarria singled to center, scoring Brantly to give the Marlins a 1-0 lead.

McDonald would get Karstens to stirke out to end the inning. The third and forth innings were filled with strikeouts, as each teams pitcher attempted to stack their odds. In the bottom of the 6th inning, James McDonald singled with one away, followed by a single from Jose Tabata. After a Neil Walker fly out, Andrew McCutchen struck out swinging to end the inning.

With the score still 1-0 in the Marlins favor, McDonald allowed a two out single to Dobbs, scoring Brantly to give the Marlins a 2-0 lead.

The Pirates would attempt to piece a rally together as Travis Snider drew a leadoff walk. Brandon Inge reached on a fielders choice with two away. Brandon Inge then hit into a fielders choice. After a Jose Tabata single, Inge and Tabata each stole bases, putting both runners in scoring position. Down to their last opporutnity in the bottom of the 9th, Russell Martin and Travis Snider led off with singles. Asdrubal Cabrera hit a pinch hit flyout, Asdrubal Cabrera would then fly out to Stanton, followed by a double play hit into by Gaby Sanchez to end the game.

Player of the Game

The Pirats and Marlins will meet tomorrow after noon in the rubber match of this three game series. Francisco Liriano will go against against Nathan Eovaldi. First pitch, 12:35PM.

The Hunt for October - Updated: August 7, 2013
NL CENTRAL	W	L	GB	RS	RA
Pittsburgh	67	46	-	394	345
St. Louis	58	55	9.0	454	417
Cincinnati	57	57	10.5	503	527
Chicago	48	65	19.0	433	500
Milwaukee	47	67	20.5	436	505

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Regular Season Game #112: Miami Marlins @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on August 7, 2013 at 09:12 PM.

(0)

August 6, 7:05 PM ET
PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
TV: ROOT SPORTS RADIO: KDKA-FM 93.7

Weather: 71�, Clear
Attendance: 20,935

Game #112: Miami Marlins at Pittsburgh Pirates
Aug 6, 2013	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Miami (37-75)	0	0	0	0	0	0	2	0	0	2	4	0
Pittsburgh (67-45)	3	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	X	3	5	1
W: Wandy Rodriguez (12-7) L: Jacob Turner (5-12) S: Jason Grilli (41)

Miami Marlins
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: G. Stanton (18), A. Kearns (16) RBI: G. Stanton (52), P. Polanco (28) SF: P. Polanco SAC: J. Turner GIDP: C. Kotchman, C. Valaika, D. Solano

Miami Marlins
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
J. Turner (L, 5-12)	3.1	3	3	3	1	5	3.89
J. Maine	1.2	1	0	0	0	4	3.95
M. Dunn	2.0	1	0	0	0	3	5.60
J. Rauch	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	3.38

Pittsburgh Pirates
HITTERS	AB	R	H	BI	BB	SO	AVG
BATTING 2B: J. Tabata (3) HR: G. Jones (28) RBI: G. Jones 3 (54)
BASERUNNING SB: A. McCutchen (32), A. Cabrera (7)
FIELDING E: J. Tabata (2)

Pittsburgh Pirates
PITCHERS	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	ERA
W. Rodriguez (W, 12-7)	7.0	3	2	0	2	4	2.39
G. Perkins (H, 1)	1.0	1	0	0	1	1	2.66
J. Grilli (S, 41)	1.0	0	0	0	0	2	0.95

Jones' Three-Run Blast Squeaks Pirates Past Marlins

PITTSBURGH - After nearly getting swept by the Rockies, the Pirates welcomed the lowly Marlins to PNC Park for a three game series. The Bucco's swept the Marlins in Miami last week and look to duplicate their success. The pitching matchup in game one features Wandy Rodriguez against Jacob Turner.

After Juan Pierre hit a bunt single to lead off the inning, Rodriguez would get Solano to ground into a double play for a quick two outs. Giancarlo Stanton would follow with a fly out to end the top half of the inning. In the bottom of the 1st, Jose Tabata led off with a double, taking third on a fly out from Walker. Andrew McCutchen then walked on five pitches, following by a steal of second. After a Pedro Alvarez strikeout for the second out, Garrett Jones crushed a ball over the center field bleachers, putting the Pirates on the board for three runs.

In the top of the 2nd, Wandy Rodriguez would walk Brantly to lead off the inning. After Polanco lined out, Valaika grounded into a double play to end the inning. With one out in the bottom of the 2nd, Asdrubal Cabrera singled, then stole second. Wandy Rodriguez then grounded out, advancing Cabrera to third. Jose Tabata would fly out to end the inning.

Pitching would take the upper hand, as each team could muster little offense. In the top of the 7th, a Jose Tabata error allowed Solano to reach second with no outs. Giancarlo Stanton then doubled to deep left, scoring Solano to cut the Pirates lead to two.

After a Brantly fly out advanced Stanton to third, Placido Polanco hit a sac fly, scoring Stanton to put the Marlins within one.

Rodriguez would get Valaika to ground out to end the inning. After a quick 8th inning, Jason Grilli would come in looking for his 41st save on the season. Grilli would get Stanton to ground out, followed by strikeouts of Brantly and Polanco to end the game.

Player of the Game

After escaping with a win in game one, the Pirates and Marlins square off in game two, as James McDonald opposes former Bucco Jeff Karstens. First pitch, 7:05PM.

The Hunt for October - Updated: August 6, 2013
NL CENTRAL	W	L	GB	RS	RA
Pittsburgh	67	45	-	394	343
St. Louis	58	54	9.0	453	414
Cincinnati	56	56	11.5	499	524
Chicago	48	64	19.0	430	494
Milwaukee	46	67	21.5	432	504

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Series Preview: Miami Marlins @ Pittsburgh Pirates

Posted on August 6, 2013 at 11:52 PM.

(0)

Series Preview | August 6-8, 2013

Miami Marlins
(37-74, 18-35 Away)

Pittsburgh Pirates
(66-45, 34-24 Home)

Team Comparison
.244	AVG	.267
.307	OBP	.278
.351	SLG	.440
4.36	ERA	2.70

Pitching Probables
Turner (5-11, 3.78)	Game 1	Rodriguez (11-7, 2.50)
Karstens (2-3, 4.69)	Game 2	McDonald (11-5, 1.62)
Eovaldi (4-10, 4.27)	Game 3	Liriano (6-4, 2.57)

Game Notes
- The Pirates, 7-3 in their last ten games, hold a 8 game lead over the Cardinals and a 10.5 game lead over the Reds for first place in the NL Central. - The Marlins, 5-5 in their last ten games, trail the Nationals by 23.5 games in the NL East. - With the injury to recently acquired outfielder Peter Bourjos, the Pirates have recalled outfielder Jerry Sands from Triple-A Indianapolis.