Pitch By Pitch

Gil Meche (RHP) (4-6, 4.11 ERA, 68 K) @ Virgil Vasquez (RHP) (0-0, -.– ERA, 0 K)

7:05 P.M. EST @ PNC Park

Post Game Update
Home runs from Nyjer Morgan, Jason Jaramillo, and Jack Wilson gave the Pirates enough offense to defeat the Royals tonight.

Virgil Vasquez’s Pirate debut (taking over for the self-demoted Ian Snell) was successful. 6 innings, 4 hits, 7 strikeouts and 2 ER.

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
David DeJesus called out on strikes.
Mitch Maier grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Billy Butler walks.
Jose Guillen called out on strikes.

Home
Andrew McCutchen grounds out, second baseman Alberto Callaspo to first baseman Billy Butler.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out to first baseman Billy Butler.
Freddy Sanchez walks.
Adam LaRoche flies out to center fielder Mitch Maier.

Inning 2

Away
Mark Teahen walks.
Alberto Callaspo doubles (19) on a line drive to right fielder Brandon Moss. Mark Teahen scores.
Miguel Olivo doubles (9) on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan. Alberto Callaspo scores.
Tony Pena hit into fielder’s choice double play, shortstop Jack Wilson to third baseman Andy LaRoche to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Miguel Olivo out at 3rd. Tony Pena out at 2nd.
Gil Meche strikes out swinging.

Home
Brandon Moss grounds out, shortstop Tony Pena to first baseman Billy Butler.
Andy LaRoche walks.
Jason Jaramillo grounds out, second baseman Alberto Callaspo to first baseman Billy Butler. Andy LaRoche to 2nd.
Jack Wilson grounds out, shortstop Tony Pena to first baseman Billy Butler.

Inning 3

Away
David DeJesus flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Mitch Maier strikes out swinging.
Billy Butler singles on a sharp line drive to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Jose Guillen pops out to first baseman Adam LaRoche in foul territory.

Home
Virgil Vasquez strikes out on foul tip.
Andrew McCutchen hit by pitch.
Nyjer Morgan homers (2) on a fly ball to right field. Andrew McCutchen scores.
Freddy Sanchez singles on a ground ball to center fielder Mitch Maier.
Adam LaRoche strikes out swinging.
Brandon Moss flies out to right fielder Jose Guillen.

Inning 4

Away
Mark Teahen grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Alberto Callaspo lines out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Miguel Olivo grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Andy LaRoche pops out to first baseman Billy Butler in foul territory.
Jason Jaramillo homers (3) on a fly ball to right field.
Jack Wilson flies out to center fielder Mitch Maier.
Virgil Vasquez strikes out swinging, catcher Miguel Olivo to first baseman Billy Butler.

Inning 5

Away
Tony Pena grounds out softly, pitcher Virgil Vasquez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Gil Meche lines out to second baseman Freddy Sanchez.
David DeJesus grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Andrew McCutchen walks.
With Nyjer Morgan batting, Andrew McCutchen steals (4) 2nd base.
Nyjer Morgan singles on a soft bunt ground ball to third baseman Mark Teahen. Andrew McCutchen to 3rd.
Freddy Sanchez out on a sacrifice fly to center fielder Mitch Maier. Andrew McCutchen scores.
With Adam LaRoche batting, Nyjer Morgan caught stealing 2nd base, catcher Miguel Olivo to shortstop Tony Pena.
Adam LaRoche singles on a line drive to right fielder Jose Guillen.
Brandon Moss grounds out, second baseman Alberto Callaspo to first baseman Billy Butler.

Inning 6

Away
Mitch Maier strikes out on foul tip.
Billy Butler strikes out on foul tip.
Jose Guillen doubles (8) on a sharp line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Mark Teahen strikes out swinging.

Home
Pitcher Change: Juan Cruz replaces Gil Meche, batting 9th.
Andy LaRoche flies out to left fielder David DeJesus.
Jason Jaramillo strikes out swinging.
Jack Wilson homers (3) on a fly ball to left field.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Eric Hinske replaces Virgil Vasquez.
Eric Hinske flies out to right fielder Jose Guillen.

Inning 7

Away
Pitcher Change: Steven Jackson replaces Virgil Vasquez, batting 9th.
Alberto Callaspo flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Miguel Olivo grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Tony Pena called out on strikes.

Home
Andrew McCutchen strikes out swinging.
Nyjer Morgan flies out to right fielder Jose Guillen.
Freddy Sanchez lines out to right fielder Jose Guillen.

Inning 8

Away
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Willie Bloomquist replaces Juan Cruz.
Willie Bloomquist grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Pitcher Change: Sean Burnett replaces Steven Jackson, batting 9th.
David DeJesus lines out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Brayan Pena replaces Mitch Maier.
Brayan Pena singles on a ground ball to right fielder Brandon Moss. Brayan Pena out at 2nd, right fielder Brandon Moss to shortstop Jack Wilson.

Home
Pitcher Change: Jamey Wright replaces Juan Cruz, batting 2nd, replacing Brayan Pena.
Willie Bloomquist remains in the game as the center fielder.
Adam LaRoche grounds out, second baseman Alberto Callaspo to first baseman Billy Butler.
Brandon Moss strikes out swinging.
Andy LaRoche called out on strikes.

Inning 9

Away
Pitcher Change: Matt Capps replaces Sean Burnett, batting 9th.
Billy Butler grounds out softly, pitcher Matt Capps to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Jose Guillen grounds out sharply, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Mark Teahen homers (9) on a fly ball to left center field.
Alberto Callaspo reaches on missed catch error by pitcher Matt Capps, assist to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Miguel Olivo singles on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan. Alberto Callaspo to 2nd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Mike Jacobs replaces Tony Pena.
Mike Jacobs called out on strikes.

Paul Maholm (LHP) (4-2, 3.61 ERA, 50 K) @ Glen Perkins (LHP) (1-3, 5.36 ERA, 26 K)

8:10 P.M. EST @ Metrodome

After getting a series win against the Tigers, interleague play continues, and the Pirates travel to Minnesota for a 3 game set.

Post Game Update
Tonight’s game in the Metrodome didn’t go so well. Paul Maholm was all over the place. He allowed 14 hits and 8 runs in 5 innings.

Pirate hitters managed 11 hits, but they could only get 2 runs across.

buccofans.com pointed out an interesting statistic regarding Paul Maholm and whoever catches him.

ERA with Jaramillo – 8.39
ERA with Diaz – 0.67
ERA with Doumit – 0.87

Pirate fielders struggled all night, losing balls in the white roof of the Metrodome.

This could be a long 3 game series.

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
Andrew McCutchen grounds out, third baseman Joe Crede to first baseman Justin Morneau.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out softly, shortstop Brendan Harris to first baseman Justin Morneau.
Freddy Sanchez flies out to center fielder Carlos Gomez.

Home
Brendan Harris singles on a ground ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Joe Mauer singles on a ground ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Brendan Harris to 3rd.
Justin Morneau grounds into double play, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Brendan Harris scores. Joe Mauer out at 2nd.
Joe Crede strikes out swinging.

Inning 2

Away
Adam LaRoche strikes out swinging.
Craig Monroe singles on a line drive to right fielder Michael Cuddyer.
Delwyn Young singles on a line drive to center fielder Carlos Gomez. Craig Monroe to 2nd.
Andy LaRoche strikes out swinging.
Jason Jaramillo grounds into a force out, shortstop Brendan Harris to second baseman Nick Punto. Delwyn Young out at 2nd.

Home
Jason Kubel singles on a line drive to right fielder Delwyn Young.
Michael Cuddyer doubles (13) on a fly ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Jason Kubel out at home on the throw, center fielder Andrew McCutchen to second baseman Freddy Sanchez to catcher Jason Jaramillo. Michael Cuddyer to 3rd on the throw.
Delmon Young singles on a ground ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Michael Cuddyer scores.
With Carlos Gomez batting, wild pitch by Paul Maholm, Delmon Young to 2nd.
Carlos Gomez pops out to second baseman Freddy Sanchez.
Nick Punto grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 3

Away
Jack Wilson doubles (14) on a ground ball to left fielder Delmon Young.
Andrew McCutchen strikes out swinging.
Nyjer Morgan homers (1) on a fly ball to right field. Jack Wilson scores.
Freddy Sanchez grounds out, second baseman Nick Punto to first baseman Justin Morneau.
Adam LaRoche singles on a soft line drive to center fielder Carlos Gomez.
Craig Monroe pops out to first baseman Justin Morneau in foul territory.

Home
Brendan Harris walks.
Joe Mauer singles on a ground ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Brendan Harris to 2nd.
Justin Morneau singles on a ground ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Brendan Harris scores. Joe Mauer to 2nd.
Joe Crede singles on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan. Joe Mauer to 3rd. Justin Morneau to 2nd.
Jason Kubel grounds into double play, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Joe Mauer scores. Justin Morneau to 3rd. Joe Crede out at 2nd.
Michael Cuddyer strikes out swinging.

Inning 4

Away
Delwyn Young called out on strikes.
Andy LaRoche flies out to left fielder Delmon Young.
Jason Jaramillo flies out to right fielder Michael Cuddyer.

Home
Delmon Young strikes out swinging.
Carlos Gomez singles on a soft fly ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Nick Punto grounds into double play, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Carlos Gomez out at 2nd.

Inning 5

Away
Jack Wilson flies out to left fielder Delmon Young.
Andrew McCutchen doubles (2) on a ground ball to left fielder Delmon Young.
Nyjer Morgan walks.
Freddy Sanchez singles on a line drive to right fielder Michael Cuddyer. Andrew McCutchen to 3rd. Nyjer Morgan to 2nd.
Adam LaRoche grounds into double play, second baseman Nick Punto to shortstop Brendan Harris to first baseman Justin Morneau. Freddy Sanchez out at 2nd.

Home
Brendan Harris strikes out swinging.
Joe Mauer singles on a line drive to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Justin Morneau lines out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Joe Crede doubles (8) on a fly ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Joe Mauer scores.
Jason Kubel flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.

Inning 6

Away
Craig Monroe grounds out, shortstop Brendan Harris to first baseman Justin Morneau.
Delwyn Young flies out to center fielder Carlos Gomez.
Andy LaRoche grounds out, shortstop Brendan Harris to first baseman Justin Morneau.

Home
Michael Cuddyer singles on a ground ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
With Delmon Young batting, wild pitch by Paul Maholm, Michael Cuddyer to 2nd.
Delmon Young singles on a line drive to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Michael Cuddyer to 3rd.
Carlos Gomez singles on a soft fly ball to right fielder Delwyn Young. Michael Cuddyer scores. Delmon Young to 3rd.
Pitcher Change: Jeff Karstens replaces Paul Maholm.
Nick Punto out on a sacrifice fly to right fielder Delwyn Young. Delmon Young scores.
Brendan Harris flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
With Joe Mauer batting, Carlos Gomez steals (6) 2nd base.
Joe Mauer doubles (10) on a ground ball to right fielder Delwyn Young. Carlos Gomez scores.
Justin Morneau walks.
Joe Crede grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 7

Away
Pitcher Change: R. A. Dickey replaces Glen Perkins.
Jason Jaramillo strikes out swinging.
Jack Wilson strikes out swinging.
Andrew McCutchen singles on a ground ball to third baseman Joe Crede.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, second baseman Nick Punto to first baseman Justin Morneau.

Home
Pitcher Change: Evan Meek replaces Jeff Karstens.
Jason Kubel walks.
Michael Cuddyer grounds into double play, shortstop Jack Wilson to second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Jason Kubel out at 2nd.
Delmon Young flies out to right fielder Delwyn Young.

Inning 8

Away
Freddy Sanchez flies out to center fielder Carlos Gomez.
Adam LaRoche flies out to left fielder Delmon Young.
Craig Monroe strikes out swinging. Craig Monroe advances to 1st, on throwing error by catcher Joe Mauer.
Delwyn Young doubles (4) on a line drive to left fielder Delmon Young. Craig Monroe to 3rd.
Andy LaRoche grounds out to catcher Joe Mauer. Andy LaRoche out on batter interference.

Home
Carlos Gomez strikes out swinging, catcher Jason Jaramillo to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Nick Punto singles on a soft line drive to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Brendan Harris grounds into double play, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Nick Punto out at 2nd.

Inning 9

Away
Pitcher Change: Jose Mijares replaces R. A. Dickey.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Robinzon Diaz replaces Jason Jaramillo.
Robinzon Diaz singles on a ground ball to center fielder Carlos Gomez.
Jack Wilson singles on a soft fly ball to center fielder Carlos Gomez. Robinzon Diaz to 2nd.
Andrew McCutchen flies out to right fielder Michael Cuddyer.
Nyjer Morgan strikes out swinging.
Freddy Sanchez lines out to center fielder Carlos Gomez.

Charlie Morton (RHP) (0-0, -.– ERA, 0 K) @ Jair Jurrjens (RHP) (5-3, 2.84 ERA, 48 K)

7:00 P.M. EST @ Turner Field

Hello, Charlie Morton. Welcome to Pittsburgh!! The newly acquired pitcher is called up to the majors to face his old team. How can’t you be excited about the bottom of the first inning when Morton pitches to McLouth?

Tom Gorzelanny was sent back to AAA Indianapolis.

Post Game Update

Charlie Morton started, but he didn’t last long. After 13 pitches, he left the game due to an injured left hamstring. Jeff Karstens resumed and had a nice outing. Morton is scheduled to go again next Tuesday.

In small-ball fashion, the Pirates put 4 runs togheter, and it was enough to take home the 4-3 victory. The Pirates haven’t homered in their last 309 plate appearances. It goes back to Jaramillo’s first career home run. That’s not good.

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
Andrew McCutchen strikes out swinging.
Nyjer Morgan singles on a ground ball to left fielder Garret Anderson.
Freddy Sanchez flies out to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.
With Adam LaRoche batting, Nyjer Morgan steals (14) 2nd base.
Adam LaRoche walks.
Andy LaRoche hit by pitch. Nyjer Morgan to 3rd. Adam LaRoche to 2nd.
Brandon Moss strikes out swinging.

Home
Nate McLouth grounds out, shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Yunel Escobar singles on a soft line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Chipper Jones grounds into a force out, shortstop Jack Wilson to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Yunel Escobar out at 2nd. Chipper Jones to 1st.
Brian McCann pops out to shortstop Jack Wilson.

Inning 2

Away
Jason Jaramillo walks.
Jack Wilson flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Zach Duke replaces Charlie Morton.
Zach Duke out on a sacrifice bunt, pitcher Jair Jurrjens to second baseman Kelly Johnson. Jason Jaramillo to 2nd.
Andrew McCutchen strikes out swinging.

Home
Pitcher Change: Jeff Karstens replaces Charlie Morton, batting 9th.
Garret Anderson grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Greg Norton grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Jeff Francoeur flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.

Inning 3

Away
Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Charlie Morton left the game due to an injured leg.
Nyjer Morgan singles on a line drive to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.
Freddy Sanchez singles on a fly ball to center fielder Nate McLouth. Nyjer Morgan to 3rd.
Adam LaRoche grounds into a force out, second baseman Kelly Johnson to shortstop Yunel Escobar. Nyjer Morgan scores. Freddy Sanchez out at 2nd. Adam LaRoche to 1st.
Andy LaRoche grounds into a force out, first baseman Greg Norton to shortstop Yunel Escobar. Adam LaRoche out at 2nd. Andy LaRoche to 1st.
Brandon Moss walks. Andy LaRoche to 2nd.
Jason Jaramillo singles on a fly ball to center fielder Nate McLouth. Andy LaRoche scores. Brandon Moss to 3rd.
Jack Wilson grounds out, third baseman Chipper Jones to first baseman Greg Norton.

Home
Kelly Johnson grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Jair Jurrjens grounds out, pitcher Jeff Karstens to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Nate McLouth doubles (9) on a fly ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Yunel Escobar pops out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 4

Away
Jeff Karstens strikes out swinging.
Andrew McCutchen pops out to first baseman Greg Norton in foul territory.
Nyjer Morgan strikes out swinging.

Home
Chipper Jones flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Brian McCann doubles (9) on a sharp ground ball to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Garret Anderson pops out to third baseman Andy LaRoche.
Greg Norton flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.

Inning 5

Away
Freddy Sanchez flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.
Adam LaRoche grounds out, second baseman Kelly Johnson to first baseman Greg Norton.
Andy LaRoche grounds out, shortstop Yunel Escobar to first baseman Greg Norton.

Home
Jeff Francoeur lines out to third baseman Andy LaRoche.
Kelly Johnson flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Jair Jurrjens grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Inning 6

Away
Brandon Moss strikes out swinging.
Jason Jaramillo flies out to center fielder Nate McLouth.
Jack Wilson strikes out swinging.

Home
Nate McLouth flies out to center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Yunel Escobar doubles (14) on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Chipper Jones flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Play reviewed and stands as called: Brian McCann doubles (10) on a fly ball to center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Yunel Escobar scores.
Pitcher Change: Sean Burnett replaces Jeff Karstens, batting 9th.
Garret Anderson pops out to shortstop Jack Wilson.

Inning 7

Away
Pitcher Change: Eric O’Flaherty replaces Jair Jurrjens, batting 9th.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Craig Monroe replaces Sean Burnett.
Craig Monroe hit by pitch.
Andrew McCutchen grounds out, second baseman Kelly Johnson to first baseman Greg Norton. Craig Monroe to 2nd.
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, catcher Brian McCann to first baseman Greg Norton.
Eric O’Flaherty intentionally walks Freddy Sanchez.
Adam LaRoche singles on a ground ball to second baseman Kelly Johnson. Craig Monroe scores. Freddy Sanchez to 2nd.
Pitcher Change: Peter Moylan replaces Eric O’Flaherty, batting 9th.
Andy LaRoche walks. Freddy Sanchez to 3rd. Adam LaRoche to 2nd.
Brandon Moss grounds out, first baseman Greg Norton to pitcher Peter Moylan.

Home
Pitcher Change: John Grabow replaces Sean Burnett, batting 6th, replacing right fielder Brandon Moss.
Craig Monroe remains in the game as the right fielder.
Greg Norton strikes out swinging.
Jeff Francoeur grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Kelly Johnson strikes out swinging.

Inning 8

Away
Jason Jaramillo lines out to first baseman Greg Norton.
Jack Wilson grounds out, pitcher Peter Moylan to first baseman Greg Norton.
Craig Monroe pops out to shortstop Yunel Escobar.

Home
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Matt Diaz replaces Peter Moylan.
Matt Diaz flies out to right fielder Craig Monroe.
Nate McLouth bunt grounds out, pitcher John Grabow to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Yunel Escobar flies out to right fielder Craig Monroe in foul territory.

Inning 9

Away
Pitcher Change: Jeff Bennett replaces Peter Moylan, batting 9th.
Andrew McCutchen grounds out, third baseman Chipper Jones to first baseman Greg Norton.
Nyjer Morgan bunt grounds out, catcher Brian McCann to first baseman Greg Norton.
Freddy Sanchez doubles (21) on a line drive to right fielder Jeff Francoeur.
Jeff Bennett intentionally walks Adam LaRoche.
Andy LaRoche walks. Freddy Sanchez to 3rd. Adam LaRoche to 2nd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Eric Hinske replaces John Grabow.
Eric Hinske called out on strikes.

Home
Pitcher Change: Matt Capps replaces John Grabow, batting 6th, replacing Eric Hinske.
Chipper Jones flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Brian McCann grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Garret Anderson homers (3) on a fly ball to right field.
Greg Norton flies out to right fielder Craig Monroe.

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: Mike 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 Mike 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 Mike 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 turns around to bat right-handed.
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.

Johan Santana (LHP) (7-2, 1.77 ERA, 86 K) @ Zach Duke (LHP) (5-4, 2.75 ERA, 42 K)

7:05 P.M. EST @ PNC Park

Post Game Update

Tonight’s game was a nice pitchers’ duel, with Johan Santana facing Zach Duke. Jason Jaramillo hit his first career home run to get the Pirates on the board. Later, Freddy Sanchez singled, followed by back-to-back doubles by Nate McLouth and Andy LaRoche to give the Pirates the lead.

John Grabow and Matt Capps did a nice job of keeping Mets off the bases in the 8th and 9th innings.

Of interest, Nyjer Morgan was thrown out of the game for arguing a call at first base and throwing his batting helmet. Replay would later show that Morgan was indeed safe at first.

2 in a row against the Mets! Go Bucs!

Live Updates:

Inning 1

Away
Luis Castillo flies out to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Fernando Martinez grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
David Wright flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.

Home
Nyjer Morgan grounds out, second baseman Luis Castillo to first baseman Fernando Tatis.
Freddy Sanchez flies out to right fielder Gary Sheffield.
Nate McLouth grounds out, second baseman Luis Castillo to first baseman Fernando Tatis.

Inning 2

Away
Gary Sheffield singles on a ground ball to shortstop Jack Wilson, deflected by second baseman Freddy Sanchez.
Fernando Tatis singles on a line drive to center fielder Nate McLouth. Gary Sheffield to 2nd.
Omir Santos grounds into double play, pitcher Zach Duke to shortstop Jack Wilson to first baseman Adam LaRoche. Gary Sheffield to 3rd. Fernando Tatis out at 2nd.
Ramon Martinez grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Adam LaRoche strikes out swinging.
Andy LaRoche strikes out swinging.
Brandon Moss flies out to center fielder Jeremy Reed.

Inning 3

Away
Jeremy Reed singles on a bunt ground ball to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Johan Santana out on a sacrifice bunt, pitcher Zach Duke to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Jeremy Reed to 2nd.
Luis Castillo singles on a line drive to center fielder Nate McLouth. Jeremy Reed out at home on the throw, center fielder Nate McLouth to catcher Jason Jaramillo. Luis Castillo to 2nd on the throw.
Fernando Martinez grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Jason Jaramillo pops out to first baseman Fernando Tatis in foul territory.
Jack Wilson grounds out, second baseman Luis Castillo to first baseman Fernando Tatis.
Zach Duke called out on strikes.

Inning 4

Away
David Wright flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.
Gary Sheffield grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Fernando Tatis walks.
Omir Santos flies out to right fielder Brandon Moss.

Home
Nyjer Morgan lines out, third baseman David Wright to first baseman Fernando Tatis.
Freddy Sanchez doubles (19) on a fly ball to shortstop Ramon Martinez, deflected by left fielder Fernando Martinez.
Nate McLouth pops out to second baseman Luis Castillo.
Adam LaRoche walks.
Andy LaRoche grounds into a force out, third baseman David Wright to second baseman Luis Castillo. Adam LaRoche out at 2nd.

Inning 5

Away
Ramon Martinez singles on a line drive to left fielder Nyjer Morgan.
Jeremy Reed singles on a ground ball to left fielder Nyjer Morgan. Ramon Martinez to 2nd.
Johan Santana out on a sacrifice bunt, third baseman Andy LaRoche to second baseman Freddy Sanchez. Ramon Martinez to 3rd. Jeremy Reed to 2nd.
Luis Castillo out on a sacrifice fly to center fielder Nate McLouth. Ramon Martinez scores.
Fernando Martinez grounds out, first baseman Adam LaRoche to pitcher Zach Duke.

Home
Defensive Substitution: Wilson Valdez replaces shortstop Ramon Martinez, batting 7th, playing shortstop.
Brandon Moss grounds out, shortstop Wilson Valdez to first baseman Fernando Tatis.
Jason Jaramillo homers (1) on a fly ball to left field.
Jack Wilson singles on a soft line drive to left fielder Fernando Martinez.
Zach Duke hits a sacrifice bunt. Fielding error by pitcher Johan Santana. Jack Wilson to 2nd. Zach Duke to 1st.
Nyjer Morgan grounds into double play, pitcher Johan Santana to shortstop Wilson Valdez to first baseman Fernando Tatis. Zach Duke out at 2nd.

Inning 6

Away
Defensive Substitution: Craig Monroe replaces left fielder Nyjer Morgan, batting 1st, playing left field.
Pittsburgh Pirates left fielder Nyjer Morgan ejected by 1B umpire Tim McClelland.
David Wright lines out to shortstop Jack Wilson.
Gary Sheffield grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Fernando Tatis pops out to first baseman Adam LaRoche in foul territory.

Home
Freddy Sanchez singles on a line drive to center fielder Jeremy Reed.
With Nate McLouth batting, wild pitch by Johan Santana, Freddy Sanchez to 2nd.
Nate McLouth doubles (7) on a line drive to right fielder Gary Sheffield. Freddy Sanchez scores.
Adam LaRoche doubles (17) on a line drive to right fielder Gary Sheffield. Nate McLouth scores.
Andy LaRoche lines out to second baseman Luis Castillo.
Brandon Moss singles on a ground ball to first baseman Fernando Tatis. Adam LaRoche to 3rd.
Jason Jaramillo grounds into double play, pitcher Johan Santana to shortstop Wilson Valdez to first baseman Fernando Tatis. Brandon Moss out at 2nd.

Inning 7

Away
Omir Santos grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Wilson Valdez grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Jeremy Reed singles on a line drive to left fielder Craig Monroe.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Daniel Murphy replaces Johan Santana.
Daniel Murphy singles on a line drive to right fielder Brandon Moss. Jeremy Reed to 3rd.
New York Mets shortstop Ramon Martinez left the game due to an injured hand/wrist.
Luis Castillo grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

Home
Pitcher Change: Sean Green replaces Johan Santana, batting 9th.
Jack Wilson grounds out, second baseman Luis Castillo to first baseman Fernando Tatis.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch hitter Ramon Vazquez replaces Zach Duke.
Ramon Vazquez grounds out, pitcher Sean Green to first baseman Fernando Tatis.
Craig Monroe grounds out, first baseman Fernando Tatis to pitcher Sean Green.

Inning 8

Away
Pitcher Change: John Grabow replaces Zach Duke, batting 9th.
Fernando Martinez grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
David Wright grounds out, third baseman Andy LaRoche to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Gary Sheffield pops out to second baseman Freddy Sanchez.

Home
Freddy Sanchez grounds out, second baseman Luis Castillo to first baseman Fernando Tatis.
Pitcher Change: Ken Takahashi replaces Sean Green, batting 9th.
Nate McLouth triples (1) on a line drive to right fielder Gary Sheffield.
Adam LaRoche grounds out to first baseman Fernando Tatis.
Pitcher Change: Brian Stokes replaces Ken Takahashi, batting 9th.
Andy LaRoche pops out to first baseman Fernando Tatis.

Inning 9

Away
Pitcher Change: Matt Capps replaces John Grabow, batting 9th.
Fernando Tatis grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.
Omir Santos pops out to catcher Jason Jaramillo in foul territory.
Wilson Valdez grounds out, second baseman Freddy Sanchez to first baseman Adam LaRoche.

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.

Within the same 15 minutes last night, I watched the Penguins fall to the Washington Capitals 3-2 to go down 2-0 in their NHL playoff series, and I listened to the Pirates blow an 8th inning and a 9th inning lead to lose their 16th straight game to the Milwaukee Brewers. sigh.

I know it’s unrealistic to expect the Pirates’ team to make a playoff run, and it’s probably even unrealistic to consider a .500 season, but losses like this really sting.

Paul Maholm made a strong start, giving the team a chance to win. He pitched 7 1/3 innings, gave up just six hits, struck out 7, and left with a 3-1 lead. Tyler Yates then got a 2nd out. John Grabow came in to replace Yates, and it was all downhill from there. Yates gave up a single and walk to load the bases, and then f@#$ing Ryan Braun hit a pinch hit double (for Chris Duffy) to tie the game.

Some clutch hitting in the bottom of the 8th by Jason Jaramillo put the Bucs back on top 4-3. Matt Capps came in for the 9th inning and gave up 2 singles and a walk to load the bases. A J.J. Hardy sacrifice fly and a Rickie Weeks home run put the game out of reach.

This is the 2nd consecutive game where Capps has looked bad. After seeing Saturday night’s disaster relief effort against the Reds this showing didn’t surprise me a great deal, but it’s still extremely disappointing.

On the positive side, Nate McLouth had another nice night, going 3-5 with an RBI, and I felt good with Jaramillo’s night.

We should have won this game. I guess the Brewers really do own us. I can’t wait to see what happens tonight.

Come On, Mad Capper, Let's Get it Together

It’s not like the Pirates deserved a 5-1 lead midway through last night’s game, and so it wasn’t entirely surprising when it disappeared. Two runs scored after a Brewer error helped to keep the 3rd inning alive. Two runs came in the 5th on a Jason Jaramillo double immediately after Eric Hinske and Andy LaRoche were hit by pitches.

Paul Maholm didn’t have the same command that he had in his 3 wins this season. He walked 5 batters and gave up 7 hits over his 5.1 innings of work.

Walks have been a problem in the last two games against the Brewers. Pirate pitchers have given up 17 walks in 16 innings (1.06 BB/Inn). Prior to this series, Pirate pitchers had given up 65 walks in 158 innings (0.41 BB/Inn). The Brewers walked just one batter last night.

Another subplot for this series has been the beaned batters. Things started to get ugly in the series opening game on Monday when Jeff Karstens seemingly intentionally hit Ryan Braun (who homered in his first at-bat of the game) to start the 3rd inning. Braun was quite upset by the pitch, and John Hirschbeck warned both benches. Later in the game, Jason Kendall was hit by Jesse Chavez in the 6th and by Evan Meek in the 8th, but no ejections were made. After the game, Ryan Braun had this to say:

Asked if Karstens drilled him intentionally, Braun said, “Probably, yeah. It’s rare for major-league pitchers to miss by that much with a fastball.”

Then, issuing a not-so-wise warning to the commissioner’s office, Braun added, “We play them about 17 more times (actually 13). Tell Mr. Selig, we’ll see what happens. It’s going to be interesting.”

Last night, Brewers’ starter Dave Bush hit three Pirate batters (Freddy Sanchez in the 1st and Eric Hinske and Andy LaRoche in the 5th).

There’s something to keep an eye on in the next 13 Brewers/Pirates matchups.

The Pirates managed 7 hits last night, and they came from an unlikely crew: the RBI double by Jaramillo, Brian Bixler avenged his 4K night by going 2-4, Ramon Vazquez singled in his only at-bat, Eric Hinske had a 2 RBI double, and Brandon Moss and Freddy Sanchez added hits.

If you’re keeping track at home, you can make that 17 consecutive losses at Miller Park for the Buccos. They try to reverse the trend at 1:05 today.

Ryan Braun threatens the Pirates

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.