Bucs Fall to O's Under The Lights

by Zane Heiple

Photo by Peter Diana/Post-Gazette

The Pittsburgh Pirates and Baltimore Orioles have had many things in common over the past two decades.  The one main thing is that neither has sniffed .500 for the past 15+ years.  While talent has graced each organization, neither had done well in drafting and developing players.  That seems to be changing by the amount of young talent that was seen on the field for each team tonight in the Orioles 4-1 victory.

While the Pirates offense was M.I.A tonight it was a former Oriole on the mound for the Buccos that starred for the Black and Gold.  Erik Bedard, who was named Opening Day starter for Pittsburgh earlier in the week, looked ready for April tonight, as he would go six innings allowing two runs, one earned, while striking out five and walking one.  Pirates fans everywhere would love to see Bedard have games like this throughout the 2012 season.  Jason Grilli performed well tonight in one inning of work as he struck out two batters.  At this point it looks like Grilli is a lock for the bullpen.  Juan Cruz and Tony Watson each worked an inning tonight allowing one run on two hits.

While it may still be spring training, the offensive struggles are still frustrating.  Pittsburgh would only manage one run on two hits.  Neil Walker and Michael McKenry collected the only hits for the Buccos, while Garrett Jones would bring home Andrew McCutchen with a sacrifice ground out to first base.   Would be nice to see a little more consistency out of the offense before the head north for opening day.

The Buccos will head to beautiful Clearwater to take on the Philadelphia Phillies tomorrow afternoon at 1:05.  Starting for the Pirates will be Chris Resop.  You may be asking why Resop, well Jeff Karstens is scheduled to pitch the second game of the opening series, and Clint Hurdle does not want Philadelphia to get a good look at Karstens before then.

Grapefruit League Record:  8-14

And...

As Always...

Let's Go Bucs!