CHRISTOPHER PANSINO – OVATHLETICS.COM
The Pirates broke their four-game losing streak withÉtheir offense. Who knew the Pirates could win a game in which their pitching gave up six runs? But the Pirates were able to pull off such a victory yesterday in their 10-6 win over the Chicago Cubs.
Pirates got off to a great start scoring three runs in the top of the first. However, the Pirates would not hold on for very long, relinquishing the lead in the bottom of the first allowing four runs for the 4-3 deficit.
Starting pitcher Brian Burres had his ups and downs in his four innings pitching. Burres would allow seven hits and two walks as he gave up all six runs, five of which were earned. These same inconstancies lead to his early removal from the game.
The Bucs would trade runs with the Cubs throughout the first five innings. However, after Burres was pulled in the fifth the Pirates were able to tie the score in the top of the sixth inning.
The bullpen provided the stopper the Pirates needed to win yesterdays game. The combined pitching of Carrasco, Meek, Hanarahan, and Dotel allowed a total of four hits, one walk, and no runs. They would strike out a combined eight batters to put an end to the Cubs offense.
Meanwhile in the top of the eight the Pirates offense was still going strong as Garrett Jones hit a three run home run that would put the Pirates ahead 9-6. Jones was 5 for 6 yesterday, including the homerun.
But the Pirates got a good game out of most of their star players today. McCutchen would add a home run in the top of the ninth to cap the game at 10-6. McCutchen finished a perfect five for five with a pair of RBIs and a walk. He would also steal two bases in the game bring his total on the season to twelve.
However not everyone had a great day, as IwamuraÕs batting trouble continued going 0 for 6 including two strikeouts. IwamuraÕs batting average is now a terrible .161 and rumors about him not being comfortable in Pittsburgh begin to get louder.
The Pirates have now won four straight against the Cubs this season including the three from last weekÕs home stand. The Bucs look to continue their success with the Cubs tomorrow.
