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.

Ian Snell (RHP) (1-6, 5.64 ERA, 42 K) @ Felipe Paulino (RHP) (1-4, 6.21 ERA, 33 K)

2:05 P.M. EST @ Minute Maid Park

Post Game Update

For the third time this season, the Pirates were going for a series win against the Houston Astros, and for the 3rd time, the Astros prevailed.

Ian Snell pitched better tonight than he has in awhile. Snell pitched 6 innings and gave up just 3 runs. Steven Jackson struggled in 1.1 innings, giving up 3 runs.

Andrew McCutchen went 3-5 with an RBI in the leadoff spot.

It’s frustrating to lose this series after sweeping the Mets and being just 3 games below .500.

Now it’s on to Atlanta.

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
Andrew McCutchen singles on a ground ball to center fielder Michael Bourn.
With Nyjer Morgan batting, wild pitch by Felipe Paulino, Andrew McCutchen to 2nd.
Nyjer Morgan called out on strikes.
Freddy Sanchez flies out to right fielder Hunter Pence.
Adam LaRoche strikes out swinging.

Home
Michael Bourn singles on a ground ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Miguel Tejada grounds into double play, third baseman Andy LaRoche to second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Michael Bourn out at 2nd.
Hunter Pence strikes out swinging.

Inning 2

Away
Andy LaRoche singles on a line drive to right fielder Hunter Pence.
Brandon Moss strikes out swinging.
Jason Jaramillo doubles (10) on a fly ball to center fielder Michael Bourn. Andy LaRoche scores.
Ramon Vazquez strikes out on foul tip.
Pitcher Change: Russ Ortiz replaces Felipe Paulino, batting 9th.
Ian Snell strikes out swinging.

Home
Carlos Lee reaches on fielding error by shortstop Ramon Vazquez.
Lance Berkman strikes out swinging and Carlos Lee caught stealing 2nd, catcher Jason Jaramillo to shortstop Ramon Vazquez.
Geoff Blum doubles (6) on a line drive to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Jeff Keppinger singles on a line drive to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Geoff Blum scores.
Humberto Quintero flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.

Inning 3

Away
Andrew McCutchen pops out to second baseman Jeff Keppinger.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, second baseman Jeff Keppinger to first baseman Lance Berkman.
Freddy Sanchez grounds out, shortstop Miguel Tejada to first baseman Lance Berkman.

Home
Russ Ortiz flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss in foul territory.
Michael Bourn singles on a ground ball to second baseman Freddy Sanchez.
Miguel Tejada grounds into double play, shortstop Ramon Vazquez to second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Michael Bourn out at 2nd.

Inning 4

Away
Adam LaRoche walks.
Andy LaRoche grounds into double play, shortstop Miguel Tejada to second baseman Jeff Keppinger to first baseman Lance Berkman. Adam LaRoche out at 2nd.
Brandon Moss singles on a line drive to right fielder Hunter Pence.
Houston Astros pitcher Felipe Paulino left the game due to an injured groin.
Jason Jaramillo called out on strikes.

Home
Hunter Pence flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Carlos Lee grounds out, shortstop Ramon Vazquez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Lance Berkman strikes out swinging.

Inning 5

Away
Ramon Vazquez strikes out swinging.
Ian Snell singles on a ground ball to shortstop Miguel Tejada.
Andrew McCutchen singles on a ground ball to pitcher Russ Ortiz. Ian Snell to 2nd.
Nyjer Morgan lines into double play, third baseman Geoff Blum to second baseman Jeff Keppinger. Ian Snell doubled off 2nd.

Home
Geoff Blum flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Jeff Keppinger doubles (8) on a ground ball to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Humberto Quintero doubles (2) on a fly ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Jeff Keppinger scores.
Russ Ortiz grounds out, shortstop Ramon Vazquez to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Humberto Quintero to 3rd.
Michael Bourn flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Inning 6

Away
Freddy Sanchez singles on a ground ball to center fielder Michael Bourn.
Adam LaRoche flies out to left fielder Carlos Lee.
Andy LaRoche flies out to right fielder Hunter Pence.
Brandon Moss grounds out, pitcher Russ Ortiz to first baseman Lance Berkman.

Home
Miguel Tejada grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Hunter Pence walks.
With Carlos Lee batting, Hunter Pence steals (6) 2nd base.
Carlos Lee singles on a ground ball to right fielder Brandon Moss. Hunter Pence scores. Carlos Lee out at 2nd, right fielder Brandon Moss to catcher Jason Jaramillo to shortstop Ramon Vazquez to second baseman Freddy Sanchez to shortstop Ramon Vazquez.
Lance Berkman doubles (10) on a fly ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Geoff Blum flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.

Inning 7

Away
Pitcher Change: Tim Byrdak replaces Russ Ortiz, batting 9th.
Jason Jaramillo walks.
Ramon Vazquez singles on a ground ball to right fielder Hunter Pence. Jason Jaramillo to 2nd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Delwyn Young replaces Ian Snell.
Delwyn Young singles on a ground ball to right fielder Hunter Pence. Jason Jaramillo to 3rd. Ramon Vazquez to 2nd.
Pitcher Change: Jeff Fulchino replaces Tim Byrdak, batting 9th.
Andrew McCutchen grounds out, first baseman Lance Berkman to pitcher Jeff Fulchino. Jason Jaramillo scores. Ramon Vazquez to 3rd. Delwyn Young to 2nd.
Nyjer Morgan singles on a line drive to right fielder Hunter Pence. Ramon Vazquez scores. Delwyn Young to 3rd. Nyjer Morgan to 2nd on the throw.
Freddy Sanchez walks.
Adam LaRoche grounds into double play, first baseman Lance Berkman to catcher Humberto Quintero to first baseman Lance Berkman. Delwyn Young out at home.

Home
Pitcher Change: Steven Jackson replaces Ian Snell, batting 9th.
Jeff Keppinger grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Humberto Quintero singles on a ground ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Matt Kata replaces Jeff Fulchino.
Matt Kata grounds into a force out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to shortstop Ramon Vazquez. Humberto Quintero out at 2nd. Matt Kata to 1st.
Michael Bourn walks. Matt Kata to 2nd.
Miguel Tejada singles on a ground ball to shortstop Ramon Vazquez. Matt Kata scores. Michael Bourn to 2nd.
Hunter Pence strikes out swinging.

Inning 8

Away
Pitcher Change: Chris Sampson replaces Jeff Fulchino, batting 9th.
Andy LaRoche grounds out, third baseman Geoff Blum to first baseman Lance Berkman.
Brandon Moss flies out to left fielder Carlos Lee.
Jason Jaramillo strikes out swinging.

Home
Carlos Lee walks.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch runner Darin Erstad replaces Carlos Lee.
Lance Berkman singles on a line drive to right fielder Brandon Moss. Darin Erstad to 2nd.
Geoff Blum flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Pitcher Change: Jesse Chavez replaces Steven Jackson, batting 9th.
Jeff Keppinger strikes out swinging.
Humberto Quintero singles on a line drive to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Darin Erstad scores. Lance Berkman to 3rd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Jason Michaels replaces Chris Sampson.
Jason Michaels hits a ground-rule double (6) on a fly ball down the right-field line. Lance Berkman scores. Humberto Quintero to 3rd.
Michael Bourn pops out to shortstop Ramon Vazquez.

Inning 9

Away
Darin Erstad remains in the game as the left fielder.
Pitcher Change: LaTroy Hawkins replaces Chris Sampson, batting 9th.
Ramon Vazquez called out on strikes.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Eric Hinske replaces Jesse Chavez.
Eric Hinske doubles (7) on a line drive to center fielder Michael Bourn.
Andrew McCutchen singles on a ground ball to second baseman Jeff Keppinger. Eric Hinske to 3rd.
Nyjer Morgan out on a sacrifice fly to center fielder Michael Bourn. Eric Hinske scores.
With Freddy Sanchez batting, Andrew McCutchen advances to 2nd on defensive indifference.
Freddy Sanchez pops out to first baseman Lance Berkman in foul territory.

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.

Mike Pelfrey (RHP) (4-1, 3.88 ERA, 23 K) @ Ross Ohlendorf (RHP) (5-5, 4.45 ERA, 32 K)

12:35 P.M. EST @ PNC Park

Post Game Update

Since today’s game was at 12:35, and the Penguins played at 8:00, I decided to take the day off and spend the day in Pittsburgh. Lucky for me, I got to see Andrew McCutchen’s MLB debut, and he looked good! McCutchen batted in the leadoff spot, and Nyjer Morgan batted second, essentially giving the Pirates two leadoff hitters. The two leadoff 4 of the 8 innings this afternoon. McCutchen was 2-4 with a walk and 3 runs. Nyjer was 2-4 with a run. Ramon Vazquez was playing SS today because Jack Wilson was out with the stomach flu. Vazquez was impressive, going 4-4 with 4 singles and a run.

Ross Ohlendorf didn’t look sharp, only going 4.1 innings, while giving up 9 hits and 5 runs. Tom Gorzelanny looked good as he came in to finish off the 5th. Steven Jackson gave 2 innings of excellent relief effort.

Today was a fun game to watch. Even with McLouth gone, we looked like a good baseball team. I love McCutchen and Morgan batting 1-2 (although I was expecting to see Morgan-McCutchen). We’re only 3 games under .500 with a series at Houston. Hopefully we can win this one!

Go Bucs!

–

Following the game, Carlos Beltran had this to say about the Pirates’ series: “The reality of this is coming here to Pittsburgh and getting swept, me, I feel embarrassed. I mean, we have to take this personally. It can’t happen. It can’t happen, us being able to come here and lose three games just like that. Three games to this team. I know they’re a big-league ball club, but we’re better than them.”

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
Alex Cora pops out to shortstop Ramon Vazquez.
Luis Castillo grounds out, shortstop Ramon Vazquez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Carlos Beltran doubles (16) on a fly ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Gary Sheffield called out on strikes.

Home
Andrew McCutchen singles on a ground ball to center fielder Carlos Beltran.
Nyjer Morgan singles on a ground ball to right fielder Gary Sheffield. Andrew McCutchen to 3rd.
Freddy Sanchez grounds out to first baseman Daniel Murphy. Nyjer Morgan to 2nd.
Mike Pelfrey intentionally walks Adam LaRoche.
Andy LaRoche singles on a line drive to left fielder Fernando Martinez. Andrew McCutchen scores. Nyjer Morgan scores. Adam LaRoche to 2nd.
Brandon Moss singles on a ground ball to second baseman Luis Castillo, deflected by pitcher Mike Pelfrey. Adam LaRoche to 3rd. Andy LaRoche to 2nd.
Jason Jaramillo singles on a line drive to left fielder Fernando Martinez. Adam LaRoche scores. Andy LaRoche scores. Brandon Moss to 2nd.
Ramon Vazquez singles on a fly ball to left fielder Fernando Martinez. Brandon Moss to 3rd. Jason Jaramillo to 2nd.
Ross Ohlendorf grounds into double play, pitcher Mike Pelfrey to catcher Omir Santos to first baseman Daniel Murphy. Brandon Moss out at home.

Inning 2

Away
David Wright walks.
With Daniel Murphy batting, David Wright steals (13) 2nd base.
Daniel Murphy singles on a ground ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. David Wright scores.
Fernando Martinez singles on a ground ball to right fielder Brandon Moss. Daniel Murphy to 3rd.
Omir Santos reaches on a fielder’s choice out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to catcher Jason Jaramillo. Daniel Murphy out at home. Fernando Martinez to 2nd.
Mike Pelfrey ground bunts into a force out, first baseman Adam LaRoche to shortstop Ramon Vazquez. Fernando Martinez to 3rd. Omir Santos out at 2nd. Mike Pelfrey to 1st.
Alex Cora doubles (5) on a line drive to right fielder Brandon Moss. Fernando Martinez scores. Mike Pelfrey to 3rd.
Luis Castillo singles on a ground ball to shortstop Ramon Vazquez. Mike Pelfrey scores. Alex Cora to 3rd.
Carlos Beltran walks. Luis Castillo to 2nd.
Gary Sheffield grounds out, pitcher Ross Ohlendorf to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Andrew McCutchen flies out to center fielder Carlos Beltran.
Nyjer Morgan reaches on fielding error by first baseman Daniel Murphy. Nyjer Morgan to 3rd.
Freddy Sanchez strikes out swinging.
Adam LaRoche doubles (18) on a fly ball to left fielder Fernando Martinez. Nyjer Morgan scores.
Andy LaRoche grounds out, first baseman Daniel Murphy to pitcher Mike Pelfrey.

Inning 3

Away
David Wright walks.
Daniel Murphy flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Fernando Martinez flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Omir Santos singles on a line drive to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. David Wright to 2nd.
Mike Pelfrey grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Brandon Moss strikes out swinging.
Jason Jaramillo grounds out, shortstop Alex Cora to first baseman Daniel Murphy.
Ramon Vazquez singles on a soft line drive to left fielder Fernando Martinez.
Ross Ohlendorf strikes out swinging.

Inning 4

Away
Alex Cora pops out to third baseman Andy LaRoche in foul territory.
Luis Castillo grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Carlos Beltran homers (7) on a fly ball to right center field.
Gary Sheffield grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Andrew McCutchen walks.
Nyjer Morgan out on a sacrifice bunt, pitcher Mike Pelfrey to first baseman Daniel Murphy. Andrew McCutchen to 2nd.
Freddy Sanchez grounds out, second baseman Luis Castillo to first baseman Daniel Murphy. Andrew McCutchen to 3rd.
Adam LaRoche walks.
Andy LaRoche hit by pitch. Adam LaRoche to 2nd.
Brandon Moss walks. Andrew McCutchen scores. Adam LaRoche to 3rd. Andy LaRoche to 2nd.
Jason Jaramillo singles on a line drive to left fielder Fernando Martinez. Adam LaRoche scores. Andy LaRoche scores. Brandon Moss to 2nd.
Pitcher Change: Ken Takahashi replaces Mike Pelfrey, batting 9th.
Ramon Vazquez singles on a line drive to right fielder Gary Sheffield. Brandon Moss scores. Jason Jaramillo to 2nd.
Ross Ohlendorf strikes out swinging.

Inning 5

Away
David Wright singles on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Daniel Murphy pops out to shortstop Ramon Vazquez.
Fernando Martinez doubles (3) on a line drive to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. David Wright scores.
Pitcher Change: Tom Gorzelanny replaces Ross Ohlendorf, batting 9th.
Omir Santos grounds out, pitcher Tom Gorzelanny to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Fernando Martinez to 3rd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Emil Brown replaces Ken Takahashi.
Emil Brown grounds out, pitcher Tom Gorzelanny to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Pitcher Change: Sean Green replaces Ken Takahashi, batting 9th.
Andrew McCutchen grounds out, shortstop Alex Cora to first baseman Daniel Murphy.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, pitcher Sean Green to first baseman Daniel Murphy.
Freddy Sanchez flies out to center fielder Carlos Beltran.

Inning 6

Away
Pitcher Change: Sean Burnett replaces Tom Gorzelanny, batting 9th.
Alex Cora grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Luis Castillo lines out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Carlos Beltran strikes out swinging.

Home
Adam LaRoche flies out to left fielder Fernando Martinez.
Andy LaRoche strikes out swinging.
Brandon Moss grounds out to first baseman Daniel Murphy.

Inning 7

Away
Pitcher Change: Steven Jackson replaces Sean Burnett, batting 5th, replacing third baseman Andy LaRoche.
Defensive Substitution: Eric Hinske replaces pitcher Sean Burnett, batting 9th, playing third base.
Gary Sheffield grounds out, shortstop Ramon Vazquez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
David Wright grounds out, shortstop Ramon Vazquez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Daniel Murphy walks.
Fernando Martinez grounds into a force out, first baseman Adam LaRoche to shortstop Ramon Vazquez. Daniel Murphy out at 2nd.

Home
Pitcher Change: J. Putz replaces Sean Green, batting 9th.
Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Andy LaRoche left the game due to an injured knee.
Jason Jaramillo grounds out, third baseman David Wright to first baseman Daniel Murphy.
Ramon Vazquez singles on a ground ball to left fielder Fernando Martinez.
With Eric Hinske batting, Ramon Vazquez steals (1) 2nd base.
Eric Hinske pops out to first baseman Daniel Murphy.
Andrew McCutchen singles on a line drive to right fielder Gary Sheffield. Ramon Vazquez scores.
With Nyjer Morgan batting, Andrew McCutchen steals (1) 2nd base.
Nyjer Morgan triples (5) on a fly ball to right fielder Gary Sheffield. Andrew McCutchen scores.
Freddy Sanchez lines out to center fielder Carlos Beltran.

Inning 8

Away
Omir Santos flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Jeremy Reed replaces J. Putz.
Jeremy Reed grounds out, first baseman Adam LaRoche to pitcher Steven Jackson.
Alex Cora flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Home
Pitcher Change: Pedro Feliciano replaces J. Putz, batting 9th.
Adam LaRoche flies out to center fielder Carlos Beltran.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Craig Monroe replaces Steven Jackson.
Craig Monroe strikes out swinging.
Brandon Moss grounds out to pitcher Pedro Feliciano.

Inning 9

Away
Pitcher Change: Jesse Chavez replaces Steven Jackson, batting 5th, replacing Craig Monroe.
Luis Castillo walks.
With Carlos Beltran batting, wild pitch by Jesse Chavez, Luis Castillo to 2nd.
Carlos Beltran grounds out, shortstop Ramon Vazquez to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Luis Castillo to 3rd.
Gary Sheffield pops out to first baseman Adam LaRoche in foul territory.
David Wright doubles (13) on a fly ball to right fielder Brandon Moss. Luis Castillo scores.
Daniel Murphy flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Rainout! This game will be played on July 2 at 12:35 P.M.

But…. that’s not what Pirate fans will be talking about tonight.

Management has made one of those “tough decisions” that they said they’d have to make. Nate McLouth has been traded to the Atlanta Braves. In return, the Pirates pick up 3 prospects, 2 of which may not be far from the Major Leagues. Charlie Morton is a RHP who has been a leader in the International League this season. Gorkys Hernandez is an OF who is another potential leadoff-type guy. Hernandez has been playing well in AA this season. Jeff Locke is a LHP that I haven’t heard much about. Andrew McCutchen will make his debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates tomorrow.

It’s tough to see McLouth go, but McCutchen seems ready for the Majors, and we had extra outfielders. McLouth is the guy with the highest trade value. Hopefully the prospects begin to bloom within the Pittsburgh system.