In a first inning pitcher’s duel Chad Kuhl prevailed by only allowing two runs, on a leadoff home run and a bases loaded walk; while Blake Snell was chased by the Pirates thanks to some two out magic from back to back doubles off the bats of Jacob Stallings and Erik Gonzalez. Unfortunately he wasn’t unable to qualify for the win as he only made it through 3.2 innings after a throwing error, a wild pitch, five more walks two more earned runs.
Luckily for Pittsburgh their hitters arrived to salvage the win, or at least most of them did. Kevin Newman collected two hits in the leadoff spot, Bryan Reynolds added two of his own and the aforementioned tandem of Stallings and Gonzalez had three a piece. Even Colin Moran got in on the action with a pinch hit RBI single. On the opposite end of the spectrum Wilmer Difo and Anthony Alford-both potential DFA candidates when Ke’Bryan Hayes returns from the IL-combined for seven strikeouts in nine at bats.
As far as the Pirates bullpen was concerned they also outperformed the Padres, although it wasn’t always pretty outside of the 14 pitch two strikeout performance from Chris Stratton; who earned the win in Pittsburgh’s 8-4, 4 hour and 7 minute victory over the Padres.
News and Notes:
- Jacob Stallings has been a pretty clutch over the past couple of seasons; hitting .472 with 19 RBIs in 35 opportunities with runners in scoring position.
- The Pirates pitchers combined for 13 walks and 6 strikeouts. On any level that is cause for concern.
- There were seven hit batsmen between the two ball clubs; including Phillip Evans and Jorge Mateo were both hit twice.
- Kevin looked a lot more comfortable hitting in the leadoff spot. I would consider keeping him there, even when they are not facing a lefty.
- I realize RichRod has only pitched 4.1 innings this year, but in this limited work he has looked extremely competent; allowing only two base runners and striking out five.
The Pirates and Padres are halfway through the four game series, as Joe Musgrove (2-0, 0.00 ERA) officially return to PNC Park, fresh off his no-hitter, to take on Tyler Anderson (0-0, 5.23 ERA) at 6:35 PM EST.
Inside The Bucs Basement 