Pitch By Pitch

Zach Duke (LHP) (6-4, 2.62 ERA, 42 K) @ Kenshin Kawakami (RHP) (3-6, 4.63 ERA, 46 K)

7:00 P.M. EST @ Turner Field

Post Game Update

Zach Duke didn’t have a strong start tonight. He gave up 11 hits and 6 runs in 6 innings. Still the Pirates managed to score 2 runs in the 6th thanks to triples from Andrew McCutchen and Freddy Sanchez. Nyjer Morgan and Adam LaRoche each hit sacrifice flies to score McCutchen and Sanchez. Jaramillo, Wilson, Hinske, and McCutchen hit four consecutive hits in the 7th to score 3 runs and tie the game.

The Pirate bullpen pitched remarkably well in innings 7 through 14. Tom Gorzelanny, John Grabow, Sean Burnett, Steven Jackson, Jesse Chavez, and Evan Meek (3 innings!) all kept the Bucs in the game. Jeff Karstens entered for the bottom of the 15th inning, and he surrendered 2 walks and 2 hits, and Matt Diaz knocked in the winning run.

This was a tough loss for the Pirates tonight. Bobby Cox got his 2,000th win as a Braves manager. Nate McLouth hit a HR in his first game against the Pirates. Luckily, Andrew McCutchen is playing great, although is defense could use some work.

Since Karstens came into the game in relief tonight, we may see Charlie Morton enter the starting rotation soon.

Tonight’s game also brought up a minor bug in my scoresheet. I’ve known that there is currently a serious limitation in the scoresheet. Each team can only have 63 plate appearances. As I finished the scoresheet, I breathed a sigh of relief when the Pirates finished with 62 plate appearances and the Braves finished with 63. The minor bug occurred when a team had exactly 63 plate appearances. I’ll post an update shortly.

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
Andrew McCutchen strikes out swinging.
Nyjer Morgan hit by pitch.
Freddy Sanchez flies out to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.
With Adam LaRoche batting, Nyjer Morgan caught stealing 2nd base, catcher Brian McCann to shortstop Yunel Escobar.

Home
Nate McLouth singles on a line drive to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Yunel Escobar grounds into a force out, shortstop Jack Wilson to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Nate McLouth out at 2nd. Yunel Escobar to 1st.
Chipper Jones homers (8) on a fly ball to right field. Yunel Escobar scores.
Brian McCann hit by pitch.
Garret Anderson flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Jeff Francoeur flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.

Inning 2

Away
Adam LaRoche grounds out, first baseman Martin Prado to pitcher Kenshin Kawakami.
Andy LaRoche grounds out, shortstop Yunel Escobar to first baseman Martin Prado.
Brandon Moss grounds out to first baseman Martin Prado.

Home
Martin Prado singles on a ground ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Kelly Johnson strikes out on foul tip.
Kenshin Kawakami bunt pops out to pitcher Zach Duke.
Nate McLouth grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 3

Away
Jason Jaramillo flies out to left fielder Garret Anderson.
Jack Wilson strikes out swinging.
Zach Duke grounds out, second baseman Kelly Johnson to first baseman Martin Prado.

Home
Yunel Escobar flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Chipper Jones walks.
Brian McCann flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Garret Anderson strikes out swinging.

Inning 4

Away
Andrew McCutchen singles on a line drive to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, second baseman Kelly Johnson to first baseman Martin Prado. Andrew McCutchen to 2nd.
Freddy Sanchez doubles (20) on a fly ball to right fielder Jeff Francoeur. Andrew McCutchen scores.
Adam LaRoche walks.
Andy LaRoche strikes out swinging.
Brandon Moss grounds out, second baseman Kelly Johnson to first baseman Martin Prado.

Home
Jeff Francoeur singles on a ground ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Martin Prado grounds into double play, shortstop Jack Wilson to second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Jeff Francoeur out at 2nd.
Kelly Johnson singles on a ground ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Kenshin Kawakami grounds out, pitcher Zach Duke to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 5

Away
Jason Jaramillo called out on strikes.
Jack Wilson called out on strikes.
Zach Duke flies out to left fielder Garret Anderson.

Home
Nate McLouth homers (10) on a fly ball to center field.
Yunel Escobar flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Chipper Jones singles on a line drive to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Brian McCann homers (6) on a fly ball to right field. Chipper Jones scores.
Garret Anderson walks.
Jeff Francoeur grounds out, first baseman Adam LaRoche to pitcher Zach Duke. Garret Anderson to 2nd.
Martin Prado flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Inning 6

Away
Andrew McCutchen triples (1) on a fly ball to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.
Nyjer Morgan out on a sacrifice fly to center fielder Nate McLouth. Andrew McCutchen scores.
Freddy Sanchez triples (3) on a fly ball to left fielder Garret Anderson.
Adam LaRoche out on a sacrifice fly to left fielder Garret Anderson. Freddy Sanchez scores.
Andy LaRoche grounds out, pitcher Kenshin Kawakami to first baseman Martin Prado.

Home
Kelly Johnson grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Matt Diaz replaces Kenshin Kawakami.
Matt Diaz singles on a soft fly ball to right fielder Brandon Moss. Matt Diaz out at 2nd, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to shortstop Jack Wilson.
Nate McLouth singles on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
With Yunel Escobar batting, Nate McLouth steals (9) 2nd base.
Yunel Escobar singles on a ground ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Nate McLouth scores. Yunel Escobar out at 2nd on the throw, center fielder Andrew McCutchen to third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 7

Away
Pitcher Change: Peter Moylan replaces Kenshin Kawakami, batting 9th.
Brandon Moss grounds out, pitcher Peter Moylan to first baseman Martin Prado.
Jason Jaramillo singles on a ground ball to third baseman Chipper Jones.
Jack Wilson doubles (12) on a sharp line drive to right fielder Jeff Francoeur. Jason Jaramillo to 3rd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Eric Hinske replaces Zach Duke.
Eric Hinske singles on a line drive to center fielder Nate McLouth. Jason Jaramillo scores. Jack Wilson scores.
Andrew McCutchen triples (2) on a fly ball to right fielder Jeff Francoeur. Eric Hinske scores.
Pitcher Change: Eric O’Flaherty replaces Peter Moylan, batting 9th.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out to first baseman Martin Prado.
Pitcher Change: Jeff Bennett replaces Eric O’Flaherty, batting 9th.
Freddy Sanchez flies out to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.

Home
Pitcher Change: Tom Gorzelanny replaces Zach Duke, batting 9th.
Chipper Jones grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Brian McCann grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Garret Anderson singles on a line drive to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Jeff Francoeur grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 8

Away
Pitcher Change: Michael Gonzalez replaces Jeff Bennett, batting 9th.
Adam LaRoche strikes out on foul tip.
Andy LaRoche singles on a line drive to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.
Brandon Moss grounds into a force out, third baseman Chipper Jones to second baseman Kelly Johnson. Andy LaRoche out at 2nd. Brandon Moss to 1st.
Jason Jaramillo lines out to second baseman Kelly Johnson.

Home
Pitcher Change: John Grabow replaces Tom Gorzelanny, batting 9th.
Martin Prado strikes out swinging.
Kelly Johnson flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Greg Norton replaces Michael Gonzalez.
Greg Norton grounds out, pitcher John Grabow to shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 9

Away
Pitcher Change: Rafael Soriano replaces Michael Gonzalez, batting 9th.
Jack Wilson singles on a fly ball to left fielder Garret Anderson.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Delwyn Young replaces John Grabow.
Delwyn Young flies out to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.
Andrew McCutchen strikes out swinging.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, second baseman Kelly Johnson to first baseman Martin Prado.

Home
Pitcher Change: Sean Burnett replaces John Grabow, batting 9th.
Nate McLouth flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss in foul territory.
Yunel Escobar grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Chipper Jones flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Inning 10

Away
Freddy Sanchez flies out to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.
Adam LaRoche singles on a soft fly ball to center fielder Nate McLouth.
With Andy LaRoche batting, Adam LaRoche steals (1) 2nd base.
Andy LaRoche called out on strikes.
Brandon Moss strikes out swinging.

Home
Brian McCann lines out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Garret Anderson singles on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Pitcher Change: Steven Jackson replaces Sean Burnett, batting 6th.
Defensive Substitution: Craig Monroe replaces pitcher Sean Burnett, batting 9th, playing right field.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch runner Gregor Blanco replaces Garret Anderson.
With Jeff Francoeur batting, Gregor Blanco steals (1) 2nd base.
Steven Jackson intentionally walks Jeff Francoeur.
Martin Prado grounds into double play, shortstop Jack Wilson to second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Jeff Francoeur out at 2nd.

Inning 11

Away
Gregor Blanco remains in the game as the left fielder.
Pitcher Change: Manny Acosta replaces Rafael Soriano, batting 9th.
Jason Jaramillo strikes out swinging.
Jack Wilson flies out to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.
Craig Monroe walks.
Andrew McCutchen doubles (1) on a ground ball to left fielder Gregor Blanco. Craig Monroe out at home on the throw, left fielder Gregor Blanco to shortstop Yunel Escobar to catcher Brian McCann.

Home
Pitcher Change: Jesse Chavez replaces Steven Jackson, batting 6th.
Kelly Johnson strikes out swinging.
Manny Acosta strikes out on foul bunt.
Nate McLouth strikes out swinging.

Inning 12

Away
Nyjer Morgan strikes out swinging.
Freddy Sanchez grounds out, third baseman Chipper Jones to first baseman Martin Prado.
Adam LaRoche walks.
Andy LaRoche walks. Adam LaRoche to 2nd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Ramon Vazquez replaces Jesse Chavez.
Ramon Vazquez pops out to shortstop Yunel Escobar.

Home
Pitcher Change: Evan Meek replaces Jesse Chavez, batting 6th, replacing Ramon Vazquez.
Yunel Escobar flies out to right fielder Craig Monroe.
Chipper Jones grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Brian McCann singles on a soft fly ball to right fielder Craig Monroe.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch runner Jair Jurrjens replaces Brian McCann.
With Gregor Blanco batting, wild pitch by Evan Meek, Jair Jurrjens to 2nd.
Gregor Blanco grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 13

Away
Pitcher Change: Kris Medlen replaces Manny Acosta, batting 4th, replacing Jair Jurrjens.
Defensive Substitution: David Ross replaces pitcher Manny Acosta, batting 9th, playing catcher.
Jason Jaramillo strikes out swinging.
Jack Wilson grounds out, third baseman Chipper Jones to first baseman Martin Prado.
Craig Monroe strikes out swinging.

Home
Jeff Francoeur walks.
Martin Prado out on a sacrifice bunt, catcher Jason Jaramillo to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Jeff Francoeur to 2nd.
Kelly Johnson strikes out swinging.
David Ross called out on strikes.

Inning 14

Away
Andrew McCutchen flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.
Nyjer Morgan reaches on fielding error by left fielder Gregor Blanco. Nyjer Morgan to 2nd.
Kris Medlen intentionally walks Freddy Sanchez.
Adam LaRoche grounds into double play, second baseman Kelly Johnson to shortstop Yunel Escobar to first baseman Martin Prado. Freddy Sanchez out at 2nd.

Home
Nate McLouth strikes out swinging.
Yunel Escobar flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Evan Meek intentionally walks Chipper Jones.
Kris Medlen pops out to second baseman Freddy Sanchez.

Inning 15

Away
Andy LaRoche singles on a line drive to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Ian Snell replaces Evan Meek.
Ian Snell out on a sacrifice bunt, pitcher Kris Medlen to second baseman Kelly Johnson. Andy LaRoche to 2nd.
Jason Jaramillo strikes out swinging.
Jack Wilson flies out to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.

Home
Pitcher Change: Jeff Karstens replaces Evan Meek, batting 6th, replacing Ian Snell.
Gregor Blanco walks.
Jeff Francoeur ground bunts into a force out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to shortstop Jack Wilson. Gregor Blanco out at 2nd. Jeff Francoeur to 1st.
Martin Prado singles on a line drive to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Jeff Francoeur to 3rd.
Jeff Karstens intentionally walks Kelly Johnson. Martin Prado to 2nd.
David Ross singles on a ground ball to shortstop Jack Wilson. Jeff Francoeur scores. Martin Prado to 3rd. Kelly Johnson to 2nd.

Paul Maholm (LHP) (3-2, 3.82 ERA, 38 K) @ Roy Oswalt (RHP) (2-2, 4.28 ERA, 55 K)

7:05 P.M. EST @ Minute Maid Park

Post Game Update

Roy Oswalt took to the mound for the Astros tonight. Again, it seems the better team or the better the pitcher the Pirates face, the better they can hit. The Pirates also finally provided some run support for Paul Maholm who got his 4th win of the season.

The Pirates scored all 6 of their runs in the 2nd and 3rd innings. Paul Maholm hit a single with the bases loaded in the 2nd to score Andy LaRoche. Andrew McCutchen followed with a 2 RBI single to score Brandon Moss and Jason Jaramillo. In the 3rd inning, the LaRoche brothers each singled, followed by a Brandon Moss double. Jaramillo hit an RBI ground out, and Jack Wilson followed with an RBI double.

John Grabow and Matt Capps looked good in the 8th and 9th, respectively. Hopefully their troubles are behind them, and we can count on them to close out games night-in and night-out.

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
Andrew McCutchen grounds out, shortstop Miguel Tejada to first baseman Lance Berkman.
Nyjer Morgan flies out to left fielder Carlos Lee.
Freddy Sanchez grounds out, pitcher Roy Oswalt to first baseman Lance Berkman.

Home
Michael Bourn grounds out, first baseman Adam LaRoche to pitcher Paul Maholm.
Miguel Tejada singles on a ground ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Hunter Pence homers (7) on a fly ball to left field. Miguel Tejada scores.
Carlos Lee doubles (12) on a line drive to right fielder Brandon Moss, deflected by center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Lance Berkman grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Carlos Lee to 3rd.
Ivan Rodriguez grounds out, pitcher Paul Maholm to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 2

Away
Adam LaRoche doubles (19) on a line drive to right fielder Hunter Pence.
Andy LaRoche singles on a ground ball to right fielder Hunter Pence. Adam LaRoche to 3rd.
Brandon Moss reaches on a fielder’s choice out, shortstop Miguel Tejada to catcher Ivan Rodriguez. Adam LaRoche out at home. Andy LaRoche to 2nd.
Jason Jaramillo walks. Andy LaRoche to 3rd. Brandon Moss to 2nd.
Jack Wilson flies out to right fielder Hunter Pence.
Paul Maholm singles on a ground ball to second baseman Edwin Maysonet, deflected by pitcher Roy Oswalt. Andy LaRoche scores. Brandon Moss to 3rd. Jason Jaramillo to 2nd.
Andrew McCutchen singles on a ground ball to right fielder Hunter Pence. Brandon Moss scores. Jason Jaramillo scores. Paul Maholm to 2nd.
Nyjer Morgan lines out to second baseman Edwin Maysonet.

Home
Jeff Keppinger grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Edwin Maysonet singles on a line drive to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Roy Oswalt called out on strikes.
Michael Bourn grounds into a force out, shortstop Jack Wilson to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Edwin Maysonet out at 2nd.

Inning 3

Away
Freddy Sanchez grounds out, second baseman Edwin Maysonet to first baseman Lance Berkman.
Adam LaRoche singles on a line drive to third baseman Jeff Keppinger.
Andy LaRoche singles on a ground ball to left fielder Carlos Lee. Adam LaRoche to 2nd.
Brandon Moss doubles (10) on a fly ball to left fielder Carlos Lee. Adam LaRoche scores. Andy LaRoche to 3rd.
Jason Jaramillo grounds out, second baseman Edwin Maysonet to first baseman Lance Berkman. Andy LaRoche scores. Brandon Moss to 3rd.
Jack Wilson doubles (10) on a line drive to left fielder Carlos Lee. Brandon Moss scores.
Paul Maholm strikes out swinging.

Home
Miguel Tejada grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Hunter Pence triples (4) on a fly ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Carlos Lee grounds out, pitcher Paul Maholm to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Hunter Pence scores.
Lance Berkman grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 4

Away
Andrew McCutchen flies out to left fielder Carlos Lee.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, second baseman Edwin Maysonet to first baseman Lance Berkman.
Freddy Sanchez flies out to left fielder Carlos Lee.

Home
Ivan Rodriguez grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Jeff Keppinger flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Edwin Maysonet grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 5

Away
Adam LaRoche lines out to center fielder Michael Bourn.
Andy LaRoche pops out to second baseman Edwin Maysonet.
Brandon Moss lines out to first baseman Lance Berkman.

Home
Roy Oswalt called out on strikes.
Michael Bourn strikes out swinging.
Miguel Tejada doubles (21) on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Hunter Pence walks.
Carlos Lee singles on a ground ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan. Miguel Tejada scores. Hunter Pence to 2nd.
Lance Berkman flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Inning 6

Away
Jason Jaramillo doubles (9) on a line drive to right fielder Hunter Pence.
Jack Wilson pops out to second baseman Edwin Maysonet.
Paul Maholm called out on strikes.
Andrew McCutchen strikes out swinging.

Home
Ivan Rodriguez grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Jeff Keppinger singles on a ground ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Edwin Maysonet called out on strikes.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Jason Michaels replaces Roy Oswalt.
Jason Michaels flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.

Inning 7

Away
Pitcher Change: Tim Byrdak replaces Roy Oswalt, batting 9th.
Nyjer Morgan strikes out swinging.
Freddy Sanchez flies out to right fielder Hunter Pence.
Adam LaRoche walks.
With Andy LaRoche batting, Adam LaRoche advances to 2nd on caught stealing error by Edwin Maysonet, assist to catcher Ivan Rodriguez.
Andy LaRoche walks.
Brandon Moss grounds out to first baseman Lance Berkman.

Home
Michael Bourn grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Miguel Tejada flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Hunter Pence flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.

Inning 8

Away
Pitcher Change: Chris Sampson replaces Tim Byrdak, batting 9th.
Jason Jaramillo strikes out on foul tip.
Jack Wilson doubles (11) on a fly ball to left fielder Carlos Lee.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Delwyn Young replaces Paul Maholm.
Delwyn Young grounds out, third baseman Jeff Keppinger to first baseman Lance Berkman. Jack Wilson to 3rd.
Andrew McCutchen flies out to right fielder Hunter Pence in foul territory.

Home
Pitcher Change: John Grabow replaces Paul Maholm, batting 9th.
Carlos Lee flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Lance Berkman walks.
Ivan Rodriguez singles on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan. Lance Berkman to 2nd.
Jeff Keppinger grounds into a force out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to shortstop Jack Wilson. Lance Berkman to 3rd. Ivan Rodriguez out at 2nd. Jeff Keppinger to 1st.
Edwin Maysonet grounds into a force out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Jeff Keppinger out at 2nd.

Inning 9

Away
Pitcher Change: LaTroy Hawkins replaces Chris Sampson, batting 9th.
Nyjer Morgan reaches on fielding error by third baseman Jeff Keppinger.
With Freddy Sanchez batting, Nyjer Morgan steals (12) 2nd base.
With Freddy Sanchez batting, Nyjer Morgan caught stealing 3rd base, pitcher LaTroy Hawkins to third baseman Jeff Keppinger.
Freddy Sanchez singles on a fly ball to left fielder Carlos Lee.
Adam LaRoche grounds out, pitcher LaTroy Hawkins to first baseman Lance Berkman. Freddy Sanchez to 2nd.
Andy LaRoche grounds out, shortstop Miguel Tejada to first baseman Lance Berkman.

Home
Pitcher Change: Matt Capps replaces John Grabow, batting 5th, replacing third baseman Andy LaRoche.
Defensive Substitution: Ramon Vazquez replaces pitcher John Grabow, batting 9th, playing third base.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Darin Erstad replaces LaTroy Hawkins.
Darin Erstad grounds out, pitcher Matt Capps to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Michael Bourn flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Miguel Tejada singles on a soft line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Hunter Pence flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.

Livan Hernandez (RHP) (4-1, 4.28 ERA, 31 K) @ Ian Snell (RHP) (1-6, 5.43 ERA, 40 K)

7:05 P.M. EST @ PNC Park

Post Game Update
Over the first 3 innings, Ian Snell provided a lot more of the same… bad pitching. The Bucs found themselves in a 5-0 hole after 3 frames.

He managed to get things together, and the Pirate bats came alive. An Andy LaRoche triple knocked in 2 runs, and LaRoche later scored to make the score 5-3.

The Pirates exploded again in the bottom of the 8th and scored 5 runs thanks to an Adam LaRoche double followed by four consecutive singles from Andy LaRoche, Jaramillo, Wilson, and Young.

Matt Capps entered for the 9th inning and shut things down. It turned out to be a nice 8-5 win for the black and gold.

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
Luis Castillo grounds out, pitcher Ian Snell to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Fernando Martinez singles on a ground ball to right fielder Eric Hinske.
With Daniel Murphy batting, Fernando Martinez steals (1) 2nd base.
Daniel Murphy grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Fernando Martinez to 3rd.
Gary Sheffield walks.
David Wright strikes out swinging.

Home
Nyjer Morgan singles on a pop up to shortstop Wilson Valdez.
With Freddy Sanchez batting, Nyjer Morgan steals (11) 2nd base.
Freddy Sanchez grounds out, second baseman Luis Castillo to first baseman Daniel Murphy. Nyjer Morgan to 3rd.
Nate McLouth called out on strikes.
Adam LaRoche flies out to center fielder Jeremy Reed.

Inning 2

Away
Jeremy Reed doubles (2) on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Wilson Valdez triples (1) on a fly ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan. Jeremy Reed scores.
Brian Schneider singles on a line drive to center fielder Nate McLouth. Wilson Valdez scores.
Livan Hernandez grounds into double play, shortstop Jack Wilson to second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Brian Schneider out at 2nd.
Luis Castillo grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Eric Hinske walks.
Andy LaRoche grounds into double play, third baseman David Wright to second baseman Luis Castillo to first baseman Daniel Murphy. Eric Hinske out at 2nd.
Jason Jaramillo grounds out, shortstop Wilson Valdez to first baseman Daniel Murphy.

Inning 3

Away
Fernando Martinez walks.
With Daniel Murphy batting, Fernando Martinez steals (2) 2nd base, . Fernando Martinez advances to 3rd, on throwing error by catcher Jason Jaramillo.
Daniel Murphy walks.
Gary Sheffield grounds into a force out, shortstop Jack Wilson to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Fernando Martinez scores. Daniel Murphy out at 2nd. Gary Sheffield to 1st.
David Wright flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Jeremy Reed doubles (3) on a line drive to right fielder Eric Hinske. Gary Sheffield to 3rd.
Wilson Valdez doubles (1) on a line drive to right fielder Eric Hinske. Gary Sheffield scores. Jeremy Reed scores.
Brian Schneider grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Jack Wilson singles on a ground ball to pitcher Livan Hernandez.
Ian Snell out on a sacrifice bunt, pitcher Livan Hernandez to second baseman Luis Castillo. Jack Wilson to 2nd.
Nyjer Morgan called out on strikes.
Freddy Sanchez pops out to second baseman Luis Castillo.

Inning 4

Away
Livan Hernandez flies out to right fielder Eric Hinske.
Luis Castillo grounds out, first baseman Adam LaRoche to pitcher Ian Snell.
Fernando Martinez walks.
Daniel Murphy lines out to center fielder Nate McLouth.

Home
Nate McLouth strikes out on foul tip.
Adam LaRoche doubles (15) on a line drive to right fielder Gary Sheffield.
Eric Hinske walks.
Andy LaRoche triples (1) on a fly ball to center fielder Jeremy Reed. Adam LaRoche scores. Eric Hinske scores.
Jason Jaramillo grounds out, first baseman Daniel Murphy to pitcher Livan Hernandez. Andy LaRoche scores.
Jack Wilson flies out to left fielder Fernando Martinez.

Inning 5

Away
Gary Sheffield flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.
David Wright lines out to right fielder Eric Hinske.
Jeremy Reed strikes out swinging.

Home
Ian Snell strikes out swinging.
Nyjer Morgan singles on a ground ball to left fielder Fernando Martinez.
Freddy Sanchez grounds into a force out, third baseman David Wright to shortstop Wilson Valdez to second baseman Luis Castillo. Nyjer Morgan out at 2nd. Freddy Sanchez to 1st.
Nate McLouth flies out to center fielder Jeremy Reed.

Inning 6

Away
Wilson Valdez grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Brian Schneider walks.
Livan Hernandez out on a sacrifice bunt to pitcher Ian Snell. Brian Schneider to 2nd.
Luis Castillo lines out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Home
Adam LaRoche singles on a ground ball to right fielder Gary Sheffield.
Eric Hinske grounds into a force out, first baseman Daniel Murphy to shortstop Wilson Valdez. Adam LaRoche out at 2nd. Eric Hinske to 1st.
Andy LaRoche strikes out on foul tip.
Jason Jaramillo singles on a line drive to right fielder Gary Sheffield. Eric Hinske to 2nd.
Pitcher Change: Bobby Parnell replaces Livan Hernandez, batting 9th.
Jack Wilson singles on a ground ball to pitcher Bobby Parnell. Eric Hinske to 3rd. Jason Jaramillo to 2nd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Ramon Vazquez replaces Ian Snell.
Ramon Vazquez strikes out swinging.

Inning 7

Away
Pitcher Change: Sean Burnett replaces Ian Snell, batting 9th.
Fernando Martinez grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Daniel Murphy grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Pitcher Change: Steven Jackson replaces Sean Burnett, batting 9th.
Gary Sheffield grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Pitcher Change: Pedro Feliciano replaces Bobby Parnell, batting 9th.
Nyjer Morgan strikes out swinging.
Freddy Sanchez lines out to shortstop Wilson Valdez.
Nate McLouth strikes out swinging.

Inning 8

Away
David Wright walks.
Jeremy Reed ground bunts into a force out, pitcher Steven Jackson to shortstop Jack Wilson. David Wright out at 2nd. Jeremy Reed to 1st.
Wilson Valdez grounds out, catcher Jason Jaramillo to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Jeremy Reed to 2nd.
Pitcher Change: Tom Gorzelanny replaces Steven Jackson, batting 9th.
Brian Schneider grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Adam LaRoche doubles (16) on a line drive to right fielder Gary Sheffield.
Eric Hinske grounds out, second baseman Luis Castillo to first baseman Daniel Murphy. Adam LaRoche to 3rd.
Pitcher Change: J. Putz replaces Pedro Feliciano, batting 9th.
Andy LaRoche singles on a ground ball to second baseman Luis Castillo. Adam LaRoche scores.
Jason Jaramillo singles on a line drive to center fielder Jeremy Reed. Andy LaRoche to 2nd.
Jack Wilson singles on a ground ball to center fielder Jeremy Reed. Andy LaRoche scores. Jason Jaramillo to 2nd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Delwyn Young replaces Tom Gorzelanny.
Delwyn Young singles on a ground ball to center fielder Jeremy Reed. Jason Jaramillo scores. Jack Wilson to 3rd. Delwyn Young to 2nd on the throw.
J. Putz intentionally walks Nyjer Morgan.
Pitcher Change: Brian Stokes replaces J. Putz, batting 9th.
Freddy Sanchez reaches on fielding error by shortstop Wilson Valdez. Jack Wilson scores. Delwyn Young to 3rd. Nyjer Morgan to 2nd.
Nate McLouth out on a sacrifice fly to center fielder Jeremy Reed. Delwyn Young scores. Nyjer Morgan to 3rd.
Adam LaRoche grounds out, second baseman Luis Castillo to first baseman Daniel Murphy.

Inning 9

Away
Pitcher Change: Matt Capps replaces Tom Gorzelanny, batting 9th.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Fernando Tatis replaces Brian Stokes.
Fernando Tatis singles on a fly ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Luis Castillo lines out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Fernando Martinez grounds into a force out, shortstop Jack Wilson to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Fernando Tatis out at 2nd. Fernando Martinez to 1st.
With Daniel Murphy batting, Fernando Martinez advances to 2nd on defensive indifference.
Daniel Murphy flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Paul Maholm (LHP) (3-1, 3.30 ERA, 32 K) @ Ryan Dempster (RHP) (3-3, 4.40 ERA, 49 K)

8:05 P.M. EST @ Wrigley Field

The Pirates stay in Chicago and move across town for 3 games against the Cubbies.

Happy Memorial Day!

Post Game Update
The Post Gazette reported today that the Pirates haven’t shown interest in extending the contracts of Adam LaRoche, John Grabow, or Jack Wilson past this season.

Ryan Doumit is progressing. He hopes to be back on the field sometime in June.

Matt Capps was hurt by a line drive to the elbow in the 9th inning. Hopefully he’s OK.

Freddy Sanchez went 6/6 tonight.

The Pirates have 24 hits in the last 2 games.

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
Nyjer Morgan strikes out swinging, catcher Geovany Soto to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir.
Freddy Sanchez doubles (17) on a line drive to center fielder Reed Johnson.
Nate McLouth pops out to third baseman Ryan Freel.
Adam LaRoche singles on a line drive to left fielder Alfonso Soriano. Freddy Sanchez scores.
Brandon Moss called out on strikes.

Home
Alfonso Soriano walks.
Ryan Theriot doubles (9) on a ground ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan, deflected by third baseman Andy LaRoche. Alfonso Soriano scores.
Milton Bradley grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Reed Johnson reaches on a fielder’s choice out, shortstop Jack Wilson to third baseman Andy LaRoche. Ryan Theriot out at 3rd.
Geovany Soto walks. Reed Johnson to 2nd.
Micah Hoffpauir lines out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Inning 2

Away
Andy LaRoche grounds out, pitcher Ryan Dempster to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir.
Jason Jaramillo singles on a sharp ground ball to center fielder Reed Johnson.
Jack Wilson grounds into double play, third baseman Ryan Freel to second baseman Aaron Miles to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir. Jason Jaramillo out at 2nd.

Home
Ryan Freel pops out to shortstop Jack Wilson.
Aaron Miles grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Ryan Dempster strikes out swinging.

Inning 3

Away
Paul Maholm grounds out, third baseman Ryan Freel to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir.
Nyjer Morgan walks.
Freddy Sanchez singles on a line drive to right fielder Milton Bradley. Nyjer Morgan to 3rd.
With Nate McLouth batting, wild pitch by Ryan Dempster, Freddy Sanchez to 2nd.
Nate McLouth hit by pitch.
Adam LaRoche walks. Nyjer Morgan scores. Freddy Sanchez to 3rd. Nate McLouth to 2nd.
Brandon Moss walks. Freddy Sanchez scores. Nate McLouth to 3rd. Adam LaRoche to 2nd.
Andy LaRoche grounds into double play, pitcher Ryan Dempster to catcher Geovany Soto to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir. Nate McLouth out at home.

Home
Alfonso Soriano walks.
Ryan Theriot doubles (10) on a fly ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan. Alfonso Soriano to 3rd.
Milton Bradley doubles (3) on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan. Alfonso Soriano scores. Ryan Theriot scores.
Reed Johnson flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss. Milton Bradley to 3rd.
Geovany Soto singles on a line drive to center fielder Nate McLouth. Milton Bradley scores.
Micah Hoffpauir grounds out softly, pitcher Paul Maholm to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Geovany Soto to 2nd.
Ryan Freel lines out to third baseman Andy LaRoche.

Inning 4

Away
Jason Jaramillo doubles (8) on a fly ball to center fielder Reed Johnson.
With Jack Wilson batting, throwing error by Ryan Dempster on the pickoff attempt, Jason Jaramillo to 3rd.
Jack Wilson singles on a pop up to second baseman Aaron Miles. Jason Jaramillo scores.
Paul Maholm out on a sacrifice bunt, catcher Geovany Soto to second baseman Aaron Miles. Jack Wilson to 2nd.
Nyjer Morgan flies out to center fielder Reed Johnson.
Freddy Sanchez homers (4) on a fly ball to left center field. Jack Wilson scores.
Nate McLouth strikes out swinging.

Home
Aaron Miles strikes out swinging. Wild pitch by pitcher Paul Maholm. Aaron Miles to 1st.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Bobby Scales replaces Ryan Dempster.
Bobby Scales flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Alfonso Soriano grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Aaron Miles to 2nd.
Ryan Theriot doubles (11) on a fly ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan. Aaron Miles scores.
Milton Bradley homers (5) on a fly ball to left center field. Ryan Theriot scores.
Reed Johnson singles on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Geovany Soto flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.

Inning 5

Away
Pitcher Change: Jose Ascanio replaces Ryan Dempster, batting 9th.
Adam LaRoche grounds out sharply, second baseman Aaron Miles to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir.
Brandon Moss singles on a line drive to left fielder Alfonso Soriano.
Andy LaRoche singles on a ground ball to right fielder Milton Bradley. Brandon Moss to 2nd.
Jason Jaramillo singles on a line drive to right fielder Milton Bradley. Brandon Moss to 3rd. Andy LaRoche to 2nd.
Jack Wilson pops out to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir on the infield fly rule.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Craig Monroe replaces Paul Maholm.
Craig Monroe flies out to center fielder Reed Johnson.

Home
Pitcher Change: Tom Gorzelanny replaces Paul Maholm, batting 9th.
Micah Hoffpauir walks.
Chicago Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly ejected by HP umpire Bob Davidson.
Ryan Freel out on a sacrifice bunt, pitcher Tom Gorzelanny to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Micah Hoffpauir to 2nd.
Aaron Miles strikes out swinging, catcher Jason Jaramillo to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Jose Ascanio pops out to shortstop Jack Wilson.

Inning 6

Away
Pitcher Change: Neal Cotts replaces Jose Ascanio, batting 9th.
Nyjer Morgan called out on strikes.
Freddy Sanchez singles on a ground ball to center fielder Reed Johnson.
Nate McLouth homers (8) on a fly ball to right center field. Freddy Sanchez scores.
Adam LaRoche doubles (14) on a line drive to center fielder Reed Johnson.
Brandon Moss grounds out, shortstop Ryan Theriot to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir. Adam LaRoche to 3rd.
Andy LaRoche doubles (11) on a fly ball to right fielder Milton Bradley. Adam LaRoche scores.
Jason Jaramillo grounds out, second baseman Aaron Miles to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir.

Home
Alfonso Soriano strikes out swinging.
Ryan Theriot grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Milton Bradley grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 7

Away
Pitcher Change: Aaron Heilman replaces Neal Cotts, batting 9th.
Jack Wilson grounds out, shortstop Ryan Theriot to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir.
Tom Gorzelanny grounds out, shortstop Ryan Theriot to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir.
Nyjer Morgan triples (4) on a fly ball to right fielder Milton Bradley.
Freddy Sanchez singles on a ground ball to shortstop Ryan Theriot. Nyjer Morgan scores.
With Nate McLouth batting, Freddy Sanchez steals (4) 2nd base.
Nate McLouth walks.
Adam LaRoche reaches on a fielder’s choice, fielded by third baseman Ryan Freel. Freddy Sanchez to 3rd. Nate McLouth to 2nd.
Brandon Moss flies out to left fielder Alfonso Soriano.

Home
Reed Johnson walks.
Pitcher Change: Evan Meek replaces Tom Gorzelanny, batting 9th.
Geovany Soto walks. Reed Johnson to 2nd.
Micah Hoffpauir grounds into double play, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Reed Johnson to 3rd. Geovany Soto out at 2nd.
Ryan Freel singles on a ground ball to center fielder Nate McLouth, deflected by pitcher Evan Meek. Reed Johnson scores.
Aaron Miles singles on a ground ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan. Ryan Freel to 2nd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Carlos Zambrano replaces Aaron Heilman.
Pitcher Change: Jesse Chavez replaces Evan Meek, batting 9th.
Carlos Zambrano strikes out swinging.

Inning 8

Away
Pitcher Change: David Patton replaces Aaron Heilman, batting 9th.
Andy LaRoche singles on a fly ball to center fielder Reed Johnson.
Jason Jaramillo strikes out swinging.
Jack Wilson grounds out, shortstop Ryan Theriot to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir. Andy LaRoche to 2nd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Delwyn Young replaces Jesse Chavez.
Delwyn Young walks.
Nyjer Morgan flies out to left fielder Alfonso Soriano.

Home
Pitcher Change: John Grabow replaces Jesse Chavez, batting 9th.
Alfonso Soriano flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Ryan Theriot pops out to second baseman Freddy Sanchez.
Milton Bradley grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 9

Away
Freddy Sanchez singles on a line drive to right fielder Milton Bradley.
Nate McLouth flies out to left fielder Alfonso Soriano.
Adam LaRoche grounds out to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir. Freddy Sanchez to 2nd.
Brandon Moss grounds out softly, shortstop Ryan Theriot to first baseman Micah Hoffpauir.

Home
Pitcher Change: Matt Capps replaces John Grabow, batting 9th.
Reed Johnson flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.
Geovany Soto singles on a line drive to third baseman Andy LaRoche, deflected by pitcher Matt Capps.
Pitcher Change: Sean Burnett replaces Matt Capps, batting 9th.
Micah Hoffpauir strikes out on foul tip.
Ryan Freel walks. Geovany Soto to 2nd.
Aaron Miles grounds into a force out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to shortstop Jack Wilson. Ryan Freel out at 2nd.

Jeff Karstens (RHP) (1-2, 5.06 ERA, 14 K) @ Shairon Martis (RHP) (5-0, 4.10 ERA, 21 K)

7:05 P.M. EST @ Nationals Park

Post Game Update
In trade news, the Pirates claimed Steven Jackson off of waivers from the New York Yankees.

Nyjer Morgan was back in the lineup for tonights game. He led things off with a single and scored on Freddy Sanchez’s double in the 1st.

Andy LaRoche homered in the 3rd inning, but then the Pirates got no base runners until the 9th inning. Some clutch hitting in the 10th by Adam LaRoche and Brandon Moss helped the Pirates walk away with another victory from the Nationals.

The Pirates had two opportunities to use Matt Capps in a save situation (9th and 10th innings), but declined on both chances.

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
Nyjer Morgan doubles (3) on a ground ball to right fielder Adam Dunn.
Freddy Sanchez singles on a line drive to right fielder Adam Dunn. Nyjer Morgan scores.
Nate McLouth flies out to right fielder Adam Dunn.
Adam LaRoche walks. Freddy Sanchez to 2nd.
With Brandon Moss batting, wild pitch by Shairon Martis, Freddy Sanchez to 3rd. Adam LaRoche to 2nd.
Brandon Moss doubles (7) on a line drive to left fielder Josh Willingham. Freddy Sanchez scores. Adam LaRoche scores.
Andy LaRoche pops out to third baseman Ryan Zimmerman.
Jason Jaramillo walks.
Jack Wilson pops out to third baseman Ryan Zimmerman in foul territory.

Home
Cristian Guzman grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Nick Johnson lines out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Ryan Zimmerman grounds out, pitcher Jeff Karstens to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 2

Away
Jeff Karstens grounds out, shortstop Cristian Guzman to first baseman Nick Johnson.
Nyjer Morgan flies out to center fielder Willie Harris.
Freddy Sanchez strikes out swinging.

Home
Adam Dunn called out on strikes.
Josh Willingham flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Willie Harris walks.
With Anderson Hernandez batting, Willie Harris steals (2) 2nd base.
Anderson Hernandez flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.

Inning 3

Away
Nate McLouth singles on a ground ball to center fielder Willie Harris.
With Adam LaRoche batting, wild pitch by Shairon Martis, Nate McLouth to 2nd.
Adam LaRoche grounds out, first baseman Nick Johnson to pitcher Shairon Martis. Nate McLouth to 3rd.
Brandon Moss strikes out swinging.
Andy LaRoche homers (2) on a fly ball to left field. Nate McLouth scores.
Jason Jaramillo pops out to third baseman Ryan Zimmerman in foul territory.

Home
Wil Nieves singles on a ground ball to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Shairon Martis out on a sacrifice bunt, first baseman Adam LaRoche to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Wil Nieves to 2nd.
Cristian Guzman grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Wil Nieves to 3rd.
Nick Johnson hit by pitch.
Ryan Zimmerman grounds into a force out, shortstop Jack Wilson to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Nick Johnson out at 2nd.

Inning 4

Away
Jack Wilson flies out to right fielder Adam Dunn.
Jeff Karstens grounds out, shortstop Cristian Guzman to first baseman Nick Johnson.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, pitcher Shairon Martis to first baseman Nick Johnson.

Home
Adam Dunn homers (12) on a fly ball to left center field.
Josh Willingham grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Willie Harris grounds out, first baseman Adam LaRoche to pitcher Jeff Karstens.
Anderson Hernandez singles on a ground ball to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Wil Nieves flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.

Inning 5

Away
Freddy Sanchez pops out to second baseman Anderson Hernandez.
Nate McLouth flies out to right fielder Adam Dunn.
Adam LaRoche grounds out, second baseman Anderson Hernandez to first baseman Nick Johnson.

Home
Shairon Martis grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Cristian Guzman grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Nick Johnson flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Inning 6

Away
Brandon Moss flies out to center fielder Willie Harris.
Andy LaRoche flies out to center fielder Willie Harris.
Jason Jaramillo flies out to left fielder Josh Willingham.

Home
Ryan Zimmerman singles on a bunt pop to third baseman Andy LaRoche.
Adam Dunn walks. Ryan Zimmerman to 2nd.
Josh Willingham grounds into double play, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Ryan Zimmerman to 3rd. Adam Dunn out at 2nd.
Willie Harris singles on a ground ball to center fielder Nate McLouth. Ryan Zimmerman scores.
Anderson Hernandez triples (1) on a line drive to right fielder Brandon Moss. Willie Harris scores.
Wil Nieves singles on a line drive to center fielder Nate McLouth. Anderson Hernandez scores.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Ronnie Belliard replaces Shairon Martis.
Ronnie Belliard strikes out swinging.

Inning 7

Away
Pitcher Change: Ron Villone replaces Shairon Martis, batting 9th.
Jack Wilson grounds out, pitcher Ron Villone to first baseman Nick Johnson.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Craig Monroe replaces Jeff Karstens.
Craig Monroe flies out to right fielder Adam Dunn.
Nyjer Morgan bunt grounds out, first baseman Nick Johnson to second baseman Anderson Hernandez.

Home
Pitcher Change: Evan Meek replaces Jeff Karstens, batting 9th.
Cristian Guzman walks.
Nick Johnson grounds into double play, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Cristian Guzman out at 2nd.
Ryan Zimmerman walks.
Adam Dunn walks. Ryan Zimmerman to 2nd.
Josh Willingham flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.

Inning 8

Away
Freddy Sanchez strikes out on foul tip.
Nate McLouth flies out to right fielder Adam Dunn.
Adam LaRoche grounds out, pitcher Ron Villone to first baseman Nick Johnson.

Home
Pitcher Change: Sean Burnett replaces Evan Meek, batting 9th.
Willie Harris hit by pitch.
Anderson Hernandez out on a sacrifice bunt, pitcher Sean Burnett to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Willie Harris to 2nd.
Wil Nieves grounds out softly, first baseman Adam LaRoche to pitcher Sean Burnett. Willie Harris to 3rd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Austin Kearns replaces Ron Villone.
Austin Kearns flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Inning 9

Away
Pitcher Change: Joe Beimel replaces Ron Villone, batting 9th.
Brandon Moss flies out to left fielder Josh Willingham.
Andy LaRoche walks.
Jason Jaramillo pops out to shortstop Cristian Guzman.
Jack Wilson called out on strikes.

Home
Cristian Guzman flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Nick Johnson triples (1) on a fly ball to right fielder Brandon Moss, deflected by center fielder Nate McLouth.
Ryan Zimmerman walks.
With Adam Dunn batting, wild pitch by Sean Burnett, Nick Johnson scores. Ryan Zimmerman to 2nd.
Adam Dunn strikes out swinging.
Josh Willingham walks.
Pitcher Change: Tom Gorzelanny replaces Sean Burnett, batting 6th.
Defensive Substitution: Ramon Vazquez replaces pitcher Sean Burnett, batting 9th, playing third base.
Willie Harris called out on strikes.

Inning 10

Away
Ramon Vazquez singles on a line drive to right fielder Adam Dunn.
Nyjer Morgan out on a sacrifice bunt, pitcher Joe Beimel to second baseman Anderson Hernandez. Ramon Vazquez to 2nd.
Joe Beimel intentionally walks Freddy Sanchez.
Nate McLouth flies out to center fielder Willie Harris. Ramon Vazquez to 3rd.
Adam LaRoche doubles (12) on a line drive to right fielder Adam Dunn. Ramon Vazquez scores. Freddy Sanchez scores.
Brandon Moss singles on a ground ball to center fielder Willie Harris. Adam LaRoche scores.
Tom Gorzelanny strikes out swinging.

Home
Anderson Hernandez flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.
Wil Nieves strikes out swinging.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Alex Cintron replaces Joe Beimel.
Alex Cintron flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Joel Pineiro (4-2, 3.66) @ Ross Ohlendorf (3-3, 4.14), 7:05 P.M., PNC Park

Postgame Update:
There was a lot to feel good about in Pittsburgh last night. The Penguins destroyed the Capitals 6-2 in Game 7 of their Stanley Cup playoff series. The Pirates beat the Cardinals 5-2 and started a much-needed winning streak.

Ross Ohlendorf pitched another nice game (6IP, 2H, 1R, 5K). Pirate pitchers allowed 0 walks tonight. Matt Capps entered the game with a bit of a jam in the 9th (runners on 1st and 2nd, 1 out, 4 run lead). He allowed an Albert Pujols RBI single, but then he got Chris Duncan to ground into a double play for the save.

Jack Wilson found himself at the plate tonight. He was 3-4 with an RBI double. Like I said yesterday, it’s great having him healthy again.

Adam LaRoche hit a “home run” in the 1st that was reviewed with video replay. Replay showed that the home run hit the railing and did not clear the park. The call was overturned, and LaRoche was given an RBI double. That’s the first time that video overturned a call in PNC Park history.

Finally, in non-Pirate news, Nationals’ Ryan Zimmerman had a 30 game hitting streak going into last night. Unfortunately, he failed to record a hit against Barry Zito and the San Francisco Giants. Zimmerman spent a few months with the Harrisburg Senators on his way up to the big leagues, so I’m a fan of his. I hope he starts a new streak tomorrow (but hopefully he doesn’t hurt us too bad in our 4 game series with the Nats next week!).

Well, we’ve got a winning streak, and we’ve guaranteed a series win against the Cardinals! We’ll be reaching for the brooms tonight.

Go Bucs!

The M-Boys: McLouth, Morgan, and Moss Celebrate the Win

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
Skip Schumaker flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.
Shane Robinson grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Albert Pujols flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.

Home
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, second baseman Skip Schumaker to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Freddy Sanchez doubles (14) on a ground ball to left fielder Chris Duncan.
Nate McLouth grounds out to first baseman Albert Pujols. Freddy Sanchez to 3rd.
Play reviewed and overturned: Adam LaRoche doubles (9) on a fly ball to right fielder Shane Robinson. Freddy Sanchez scores.
Robinzon Diaz reaches on a fielder’s choice out, third baseman Joe Thurston unassisted. Adam LaRoche out at 3rd.

Inning 2

Away
Chris Duncan strikes out swinging.
Yadier Molina grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Colby Rasmus singles on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
With Khalil Greene batting, Ross Ohlendorf picks off Colby Rasmus at 1st on throw to Adam LaRoche.

Home
Andy LaRoche grounds out, shortstop Khalil Greene to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Brandon Moss singles on a ground ball to right fielder Shane Robinson.
Jack Wilson singles on a ground ball to left fielder Chris Duncan. Brandon Moss to 2nd.
Ross Ohlendorf strikes out on missed bunt.
Nyjer Morgan grounds into a force out, second baseman Skip Schumaker to shortstop Khalil Greene. Jack Wilson out at 2nd.

Inning 3

Away
Khalil Greene flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Joe Thurston grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to pitcher Ross Ohlendorf.
Joel Pineiro strikes out swinging.

Home
Freddy Sanchez grounds out, shortstop Khalil Greene to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Nate McLouth lines out to center fielder Colby Rasmus.
Adam LaRoche doubles (10) on a fly ball to left fielder Chris Duncan.
Robinzon Diaz flies out to center fielder Colby Rasmus.

Inning 4

Away
Skip Schumaker homers (1) on a fly ball to right center field.
Shane Robinson grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Albert Pujols flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.
Chris Duncan grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Andy LaRoche grounds out, shortstop Khalil Greene to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Brandon Moss doubles (3) on a fly ball to center fielder Colby Rasmus.
Jack Wilson doubles (4) on a fly ball to right fielder Shane Robinson. Brandon Moss scores.
Ross Ohlendorf grounds out softly, third baseman Joe Thurston to first baseman Albert Pujols. Jack Wilson to 3rd.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, pitcher Joel Pineiro to first baseman Albert Pujols.

Inning 5

Away
Yadier Molina grounds out, pitcher Ross Ohlendorf to shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Colby Rasmus flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Khalil Greene grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Freddy Sanchez grounds out, third baseman Joe Thurston to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Nate McLouth lines out to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Adam LaRoche pops out to shortstop Khalil Greene.

Inning 6

Away
Joe Thurston strikes out swinging, catcher Robinzon Diaz to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Joel Pineiro strikes out swinging.
Skip Schumaker strikes out swinging.

Home
Robinzon Diaz hit by pitch.
Andy LaRoche singles on a ground ball to left fielder Chris Duncan, deflected by third baseman Joe Thurston. Robinzon Diaz to 3rd.
Brandon Moss grounds into a force out, second baseman Skip Schumaker to shortstop Khalil Greene. Robinzon Diaz scores. Andy LaRoche out at 2nd. Brandon Moss to 1st.
Jack Wilson singles on a soft fly ball to right fielder Shane Robinson. Brandon Moss to 2nd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Eric Hinske replaces Ross Ohlendorf.
Eric Hinske grounds out to first baseman Albert Pujols. Brandon Moss to 3rd. Jack Wilson to 2nd.
Nyjer Morgan singles on a ground ball to center fielder Colby Rasmus. Brandon Moss scores. Jack Wilson scores.
Freddy Sanchez singles on a ground ball to center fielder Colby Rasmus. Nyjer Morgan to 3rd.
Nate McLouth pops out to second baseman Skip Schumaker.

Inning 7

Away
Pitcher Change: Tyler Yates replaces Ross Ohlendorf, batting 9th.
Shane Robinson grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Albert Pujols grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Chris Duncan doubles (11) on a fly ball to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Yadier Molina grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Pitcher Change: Kyle McClellan replaces Joel Pineiro, batting 9th.
Adam LaRoche flies out to left fielder Chris Duncan.
Robinzon Diaz grounds out, shortstop Khalil Greene to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Andy LaRoche strikes out swinging.

Inning 8

Away
Pitcher Change: John Grabow replaces Tyler Yates, batting 9th.
Colby Rasmus strikes out swinging, catcher Robinzon Diaz to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Khalil Greene flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Joe Thurston lines out to right fielder Brandon Moss.

Home
Pitcher Change: Chris Perez replaces Kyle McClellan, batting 9th.
Brandon Moss called out on strikes.
Jack Wilson pops out to third baseman Joe Thurston.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Craig Monroe replaces John Grabow.
Craig Monroe flies out to center fielder Colby Rasmus.

Inning 9

Away
Pitcher Change: Jesse Chavez replaces John Grabow, batting 9th.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Nick Stavinoha replaces Chris Perez.
Nick Stavinoha flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Skip Schumaker singles on a line drive to center fielder Nate McLouth.
Shane Robinson singles on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan. Skip Schumaker to 2nd.
Pitcher Change: Matt Capps replaces Jesse Chavez, batting 9th.
Albert Pujols singles on a ground ball to center fielder Nate McLouth. Skip Schumaker scores. Shane Robinson to 3rd.
Chris Duncan grounds into double play, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Albert Pujols out at 2nd.

Todd Wellemeyer (3-2, 4.75) @ Zach Duke (3-3, 2.79), 7:05 P.M., PNC Park

I’ll be at Camden Yards, watching the O’s vs. the Rays.

Post Game Update:
I could hardly believe my eyes as the out-of-town scoreboard in Camden Yards kept updating. Thanks to 8 strong innings from Zach Duke, the Pirates beat the Cards 7-1. Through 7 games, Duke’s ERA is 2.52. Good stuff!

The Pirates got home runs from Adam LaRoche and Brandon Moss, two players who have been struggling as of recent. Hopefully, they’re starting to turn the corner.

Jack Wilson is back! Even though he went 0-4 tonight, he was part of a nice double play, and it feels really good to have him back on the field.

Currently, the biggest cause for concern is Matt Capps. He came in for the 9th inning and loaded the bases with no outs. He escaped the inning and didn’t allow any runs, but now his last 4 performances have been shaky.

April 24 – Flyout, Walk, Popout, Walk, Single – 1 run
May 2 – Single, Single, Single, Single, Flyout, K, Single, K – 2 runs
May 4 – Single, Single, Walk, SacFly, HR, K, Flyout – 4 runs
May 12 – Single, Walk, Walk, K, K, Flyout – 0 runs

Andy LaRoche scores against the Cardinals

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
Skip Schumaker strikes out swinging.
Khalil Greene grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Albert Pujols homers (13) on a fly ball to center field.
Ryan Ludwick singles on a ground ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan, deflected by shortstop Jack Wilson.
Yadier Molina flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Home
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, shortstop Khalil Greene to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Freddy Sanchez strikes out on foul tip.
Nate McLouth walks.
Adam LaRoche strikes out swinging.

Inning 2

Away
Chris Duncan walks.
Tyler Greene flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Todd Wellemeyer strikes out on foul bunt.
Shane Robinson singles on a line drive to right fielder Brandon Moss. Chris Duncan to 3rd.
Skip Schumaker grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Robinzon Diaz singles on a ground ball to center fielder Shane Robinson.
Andy LaRoche grounds into a force out, second baseman Skip Schumaker to shortstop Khalil Greene. Robinzon Diaz out at 2nd. Andy LaRoche to 1st.
Brandon Moss singles on a line drive to left fielder Chris Duncan. Andy LaRoche to 2nd.
Jack Wilson pops out to catcher Yadier Molina in foul territory.
Zach Duke singles on a line drive to center fielder Shane Robinson. Andy LaRoche scores. Brandon Moss to 2nd.
Nyjer Morgan triples (3) on a fly ball to center fielder Shane Robinson. Brandon Moss scores. Zach Duke scores.
Defensive Substitution: Colby Rasmus replaces right fielder Ryan Ludwick, batting 4th, playing center field.
Defensive switch from center field to right field for Shane Robinson.
Freddy Sanchez walks.
Nate McLouth singles on a ground ball to right fielder Shane Robinson. Nyjer Morgan scores. Freddy Sanchez to 2nd.
Adam LaRoche strikes out swinging.

Inning 3

Away
Khalil Greene grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Albert Pujols grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Colby Rasmus flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.

Home
Robinzon Diaz grounds out, shortstop Khalil Greene to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Andy LaRoche grounds out, shortstop Khalil Greene to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Brandon Moss singles on a line drive to right fielder Shane Robinson.
Jack Wilson flies out to center fielder Colby Rasmus.

Inning 4

Away
Yadier Molina hit by pitch.
St. Louis Cardinals right fielder Ryan Ludwick left the game due to an injured leg.
Chris Duncan grounds into double play, pitcher Zach Duke to shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Yadier Molina out at 2nd.
Tyler Greene singles on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Todd Wellemeyer strikes out swinging, catcher Robinzon Diaz to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Zach Duke pops out to second baseman Skip Schumaker.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, shortstop Khalil Greene to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Freddy Sanchez walks.
Nate McLouth grounds out, catcher Yadier Molina to first baseman Albert Pujols.

Inning 5

Away
Shane Robinson grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Skip Schumaker grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Khalil Greene strikes out swinging.

Home
Adam LaRoche homers (6) on a fly ball to center field.
Robinzon Diaz singles on a line drive to right fielder Shane Robinson.
Andy LaRoche strikes out swinging.
Brandon Moss homers (1) on a fly ball to right field. Robinzon Diaz scores.
Pitcher Change: Blaine Boyer replaces Todd Wellemeyer, batting 8th.
Jack Wilson grounds out, shortstop Khalil Greene to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Zach Duke strikes out swinging.

Inning 6

Away
Albert Pujols grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Colby Rasmus hit by pitch.
Yadier Molina grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Colby Rasmus to 2nd.
Chris Duncan strikes out swinging.

Home
Pitcher Change: Trever Miller replaces Blaine Boyer, batting 8th.
Nyjer Morgan strikes out swinging.
Freddy Sanchez singles on a ground ball to second baseman Skip Schumaker.
Nate McLouth grounds out, second baseman Skip Schumaker to first baseman Albert Pujols. Freddy Sanchez to 2nd.
Adam LaRoche pops out to third baseman Tyler Greene in foul territory.

Inning 7

Away
Tyler Greene grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Jason LaRue replaces Trever Miller.
Jason LaRue flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Shane Robinson grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Pitcher Change: Brad Thompson replaces Trever Miller, batting 5th, replacing catcher Yadier Molina.
Jason LaRue remains in the game as the catcher.
Robinzon Diaz grounds out, shortstop Khalil Greene to first baseman Albert Pujols.
Andy LaRoche hit by pitch.
Brandon Moss grounds into a force out, second baseman Skip Schumaker to shortstop Khalil Greene. Andy LaRoche out at 2nd. Brandon Moss to 1st.
Jack Wilson grounds out, pitcher Brad Thompson to second baseman Skip Schumaker to first baseman Albert Pujols.

Inning 8

Away
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Brian Barden replaces Skip Schumaker.
Brian Barden grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Khalil Greene flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Albert Pujols flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.

Home
Brian Barden remains in the game as the third baseman.
Defensive switch from third base to second base for Tyler Greene.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Craig Monroe replaces Zach Duke.
Craig Monroe pops out to second baseman Tyler Greene.
Nyjer Morgan singles on a ground ball to center fielder Colby Rasmus.
Freddy Sanchez flies out to center fielder Colby Rasmus.
Nate McLouth flies out to center fielder Colby Rasmus.

Inning 9

Away
Pitcher Change: Matt Capps replaces Zach Duke, batting 9th.
Colby Rasmus singles on a ground ball to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Joe Thurston replaces Brad Thompson.
With Joe Thurston batting, Colby Rasmus advances to 2nd on defensive indifference.
Joe Thurston walks.
Chris Duncan walks. Colby Rasmus to 3rd. Joe Thurston to 2nd.
Tyler Greene strikes out swinging.
Jason LaRue strikes out swinging.
Shane Robinson flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.

This game was not pretty and not a fun one to listen to, but despite it all, the Pirates still found themselves with a chance to win late in the game.

The Bucs scored 2 runs in the top half of the first inning thanks to four consecutive singles from the top of our order, followed by a J.J. Hardy error. Jeff Karstens looked bad in his 5 innings of work, and he served up the Brewer hitters early and often. He gave up 5 runs on 3 homers in the first three innings.

Jesse Chavez and Evan Meek each pitched a scoreless inning, and the Pirate bats fought for 2 runs in the top of the eighth to tie the score at 5-5.

Then, the bullpen collapsed.

Coming into tonight, John Grabow was 1-0, pitching 10 innings for 8H, 0R, 0ER, 3 BB, and 10K. Tonight, he pitched 1/3 of an inning for 2H, 2R, 2ER, 2BB, 0K.

Tyler Yates’ struggles continued last night. He pitched 1/3 of an inning for 0H, 3R, 3ER, 1BB, and 0K. His ERA for the season is up to 9.95.

Sean Burnett entered to get the final out of the 8th, but it was too little, too late. The damage was done.

Brian Bixler played shortstop in place of the injured Jack Wilson. He went 0-4 with 4K.

Positives from tonight: Adam LaRoche, Nyjer Morgan, and Freddy Sanchez continue their hot hitting. Andy LaRoche has an 11 game hit streak.

The Pirates have now lost 16 consecutive games at Miller Park! That’s just ridiculous, and it needs to end tonight.

Paul Maholm @ Dave Bush – 8:05

Miller Park: Not a Friendly Place

I didn’t get to see or hear much Pirate baseball this weekend because I was in State College, PA for the Blue/White game, Penn State Football’s annual spring scrimmage. The weekend is really more about tailgating and enjoying the outdoors, but a reminder that college football season is on its way isn’t a bad thing either.

The Pirates were in San Diego for a 3 game series this weekend. Despite a mess of injuries, the Bucs found a way to win 2 out of 3 games and claim their third consecutive series win. Nate McLouth didn’t play at all this weekend due to an injured right oblique. It doesn’t sound like this injury will require a trip to the DL, but the team decided to keep McLouth out for precautionary reasons. Jack Wilson was sent to the DL because of the injured left middle finger that has been bothering him over the past week. Brian Bixler was called up to replace Wilson, and Bixler will likely split time at shortstop with Ramon Vazquez. Finally, Craig Hansen was sent to the DL because of neck spasms. Evan Meek was called up to replace Hansen.

Game 16 – The series opened with a tough loss for the Bucs. Pittsburgh used every pitcher that they had available before losing 4-3 in 11 innings. Ian Snell only lasted 5 and 1/2 innings. The relievers pitched 5 scoreless innings until Matt Capps walked 2 in the 11th and former Pirate, Brian Giles hit a game winning double.

Game 17 – Zach Duke looked strong once again to claim his 3rd win of the season. The Bucs dominated the Padres from start to finish in this game and took home the 10-1 victory. Duke pitched 8 and 1/3 inning, giving up 6 hits and 1 ER. He got plenty of support from his own batters with Freddy Sanchez going 3-5, Craig Monroe going 3-5, Eric Hinske going 2-3, Andy LaRoche going 2-4, and Jason Jaramillo going 2-4.

Game 18 – Ross Ohlendorf out-pitched Jake Peavy, and Adam LaRoche hit 2 home runs to lead the Bucs to an 8-3 win over the Padres. Ohlendorf pitched 7 innings, giving up 5 hits and 3 ER. John Grabow finished up the final two innings. Andy LaRoche went 2-5 to extend his consecutive game hitting streak to 10. So much for that slow start!

The Pirates are now 11-7, and they have already seen strong pitching performances from all of their starters. It sure looks like Pitching Coach, Joe Kerrigan is doing a lot of the right things.

With this series win, the Pirates are now 4 games over .500. That hasn’t happened since 2002. Also, the Pirates are now assured of a winning record in the month of April. That’s happened just twice in the last 15 years.

One final note from the weekend. Dave Davidson was claimed off waivers by the Florida Marlins. Only time will tell if this means anything.

A 3 game series with the Milwaukee Brewers is next. Let’s hope that our injury depleted Pittsburgh Pirates can find a way to keep the wins coming.

Monday – Jeff Karstens @ Braden Looper – 8:05 P.M.
Tuesday – Paul Maholm @ Dave Bush – 8:05 P.M.
Wednesday – Ian Snell @ – Yovani Gallardo 1:05 P.M.

Taking all 3 against the Marlins would certainly make a statement. We’ll find out soon enough.

Ricky Nolasco @ Paul Maholm.
First pitch is at 12:35.

Update: Yes we can!

Paul Maholm wasn’t as magical as he was in his first 3 starts, but it was good enough. 6 IP, 8H, 4R, 4K

Adam LaRoche was on fire, going 4-5 with an RBI. Even with Doumit out of the lineup, things seem to be going the Pirates’ way.

Now for a day off before opening a 3-game series against in San Diego. Keep it up, Buccos!