Bucco Blurb: Rating The Pirates' Offseason Activity Thus Far

By Chad Carlson

Among the stories surrounding the Steelers and Penguins, which dominate the Pittsburgh media, the Pirates have been relatively busy this week.  Of course, the Winter Meetings were held this week in Dallas, and even though heading into the week, the Bucs were expected to be relatively quiet from an acquisition standpoint, the club actually made a number of moves over the past couple days.

Let’s summarize the moves the team made this week.  The Pirates signed Nate McLouth, whom they traded to Atlanta in 2009.  They also inked a deal with Erik Bedard, and DFA’d Jason Jaramillo and Pedro Ciriaco.  Ross Ohlendorf, to no one’s surprise, was released this week as well, while the Pirates also acquired Yamaico Navarro from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for two minor leaguers, pitcher Brooks Pounders and infielder Diego Goris. 

Of course, these moves follow the team’s acquisitions of shortstop Clint Barmes and catcher Rod Barajas earlier in the offseason.  The team has cut ties with Ronny Cedeno, Chris Snyder, and Ryan Doumit, to name a few.

So while the Pirates may or may not be done making moves this offseason, they have reached the end of the Winter Meetings, so it’s realistic now to be able to gage how they’ve done from a team improvement standpoint.  Let’s take a look…how have the Pirates done this offseason thus far?

First of all, we have to look at this realistically.  In terms of free agents, the top tier of players was never available to the Pirates.  Albert Pujols, Prince Fielder, C.J. Wilson, etc. will never wear a Bucs’ uniform for reasons that don’t even need to be explained.  That being said, there were a number of free agents, granted a rather weak lower-tier class, who could certainly improve the Pirates team over their 2011 version. 

I have no issues with the team’s decisions to decline options on Paul Maholm, Chris Snyder, or Ryan Doumit.  Considering the production level from these players, as well as how much they would be owed in compensation, it simply isn’t worth it.  Relatively surprising was the club’s decision to pass on Ronny Cedeno’s option.  He would have been owed $3 million, but I still think that Clint Hurdle’s “lack of admiration” for Cedeno had a lot to do with the decision.  Similarly, Ross Ohlendorf’s release was expected and certainly justified.  The guy has done nothing but disappoint in a Pirates’ uniform.

Rod Barajas coming to Pittsburgh is a move that isn’t overwhelmingly exciting, but it’s something that had to be done.  The Bucs needed a catcher, and calls for Michael McKenry to be the starter are simply uneducated.  He, along with Jason Jaramillo, which was designated for assignment yesterday, as well as Eric Fryer, are not the answer behind the plate at this point.  A move had to be made, and, in terms of realistic signings and availability of players, Barajas is a decent pickup.  It remains to be seen how much he’ll be able to contribute with the bat, but given what the team got from the catcher position last year, just about anything would be an improvement.

The pitching rotation looks all but set after the team acquired Erik Bedard.  This is a risky move, given his injury problems, but I personally love it.  It shows the Bucs are willing to take a risk for immediate impact.  If Bedard is healthy, he’ll be a valuable upgrade to the pitching staff.  In addition to him, the rotation will include Charlie Morton, Jeff Karstens, Kevin Correia, and James McDonald.  Morton, of course, may or may not be ready to begin the season follow hip surgery.

With the acquisition of Nate McLouth earlier this week, the Pirates seem to have the pieces in place in the outfield.  Andrew McCutchen and Jose Tabata are locks in center field and right field respectively, and Alex Presley appears to have the inside track for the everyday starter in left field.  With McLouth, though, they have a reliable backup in the even of injuries, and his playing time will significantly increase depending on his production.  I like this move by the Pirates, getting McLouth for low cost.  He’s ecstatic to be back in Pittsburgh, and hopefully he’ll return to his 2008 form.

Clint Barmes is the biggest move in terms of the infield, and I think he’s a slight upgrade over Ronny Cedeno.  He has more power, but he’s also older, and the defense is certainly in his favor.  He has a good relationship with Clint Hurdle, having played for him in Colorado, so he seems to be happy to be reunited with him in Pittsburgh.  The Yamaico Navarro deal gives the Bucs another backup option, which is nice to have in the event of an injury or in the case of another Pedro Alvarez struggle. 

The main issue still revolves around first base, especially following the Derrek Lee rejection of the Bucs’ arbitration offer.  Though it was expected, Lee’s decision is still disappointing.  He will not be a Pirate next season, most people say, and that leaves the team in a little bit of a bind.  Garrett Jones, Nick Evans, and Jake Fox, or any combination of the three, are the options for first base at this point.  Not doubting the ability of these players, but the Pirates need an everyday first baseman.  It will be interesting to see how the team approaches this situation in the coming weeks.

Just because the Winter Meetings are over, that certainly doesn’t mean the Pirates are done making moves.  Stay tuned to Fans From The Stands for the latest reactions to Pirates’ news and rumors.

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

Roster Moves Continue For Pirates As Winter Meetings Conclude

By Chad Carlson

Though not comparing to the activity of other teams in baseball, the Pirates made a flurry of moves yesterday in Dallas…most of which are relatively acceptable from a fan’s standpoint.

The Bucs released Ross Ohlendorf, a move that most could have predicted following two terrible seasons for the 29 year old right hander.  Between injuries and overall lack of effectiveness on the mound, it was time for “Ohlie” to go.  Reports are that the Pirates still think he is much better than he performed, but still, it was clear he didn’t fit into the club’s plans for 2012 and beyond.

In addition, as was reported yesterday, Jason Jaramillo and Pedro Ciriaco were both designated for assignment in response to the signings of Nate McLouth and Erik Bedard.  The Bucs will have to release both players if they cannot trade them by next Monday’s deadline to tender contracts to arbitration-eligible players. 

The Ciriaco move isn’t surprising, considering the backup role options the team has for infielders, including Josh Harrison and Chase d’Arnaud, as well as Matt Hague and Jordy Mercer.  Newly acquired Nick Evans, as well as Jake Fox, will also be a part of the discussion for valuable utility roles.  Despite his hustle and strong will, Ciriaco didn’t quite measure up to the other options the Bucs have available, so there’s really no issue with cutting ties with him at this point.

In other news, the Pirates acquired infielder Yamaico Navarro from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for two minor leaguers, pitcher Brooks Pounders and infielder Diego Goris.  The 24 year old Navarro hit .264 in 59 games last season in Triple-A.  At the Major League level, he had a homerun and nine RBI’s in 22 games with the Boston Red Sox and the Royals.  Navarro will more than likely be the leading candidate to back up shortstop Clint Barmes this season.

And then there’s the situation at first base.  As expected, Derrek Lee rejected the Pirates’ arbitration offer.  It was speculated and assumed that Lee was going to wait until first basemen Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder signed before he did.  Pujols, of course, signed just this morning with the Los Angeles Angels, and now, expect a flurry of offers to surround Fielder.  The Bucs continue to say that they’ll keep in contact with Lee if he’s interested in playing in Pittsburgh.  While it would be great for Lee to return in 2012, it doesn’t seem very likely that will happen. 

As per Bucs’ insider Jenifer Langosch has reported, the team is leaning towards a platoon situation at first base if no deal is done for Lee.  The position would be occupied by a combination of Garrett Jones, Nick Evans, or Jake Fox.  The attempt at this type of situation in right field backfired on the Bucs last year when both Jones and Matt Diaz struggled tremendously.  Still, with Lee declining their offer and the lack of affordable first basemen on the market this offseason, this appears to be on of the only remaining options the Pirates have at this point.

The Pirates’ 2012 lineup is beginning to take shape, and as the situation at first base evolves, stay tuned to Fans From The Stands for the latest reactions to all news and notes surrounding the Bucs.

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

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Bucco Blurb: Who Will Be The Pirates’ First Baseman In 2012?

The Pirates continue to address the issues they need to correct, position by position, in one form another since the offseason has begun.  Two of the major decisions regarding the roster have already been made, as the Bucs have signed Rod Barajas to be their starting catcher and Clint Barmes for the starting shortstop job.  Now, most of the attention has been turned, in addition to the pitching rotation, to the vacant spot at first base.

Will Pittsburgh look for a starter at first base on the free agent market?  Will they try to acquire a player through a trade, or will they promote from within? 

The Bucs officially offered arbitration to Derrek Lee (announced on Wednesday), guaranteeing that they’ll get a compensatory Draft pick if Lee signs with another team this offseason.  Lee has the option of accepting the arbitration offer and agreeing to a one-year deal with the Pirates, although word is that it appears to be highly unlikely he’ll decide to return to Pittsburgh next season.  Lee’s decision will come on or before December 7.

It should be very interesting to see where the Pirates go in terms of a first baseman.  As far as regular players from past years, Garrett Jones appears to be the option at this point.  Of course, Matt Hague is still a possibility, but based on his play last year, it doesn’t look like he’s ready to be a regular 2012 everyday player at the Major League level.

Pedro Alvarez was originally figured to be migrated over to first base, but given his struggles last season, it appears that the Pirates don’t want to add any more of a transition for him in addition to his difficulties at the plate. 

Carlos Pena keeps bleeping up on the radar as far as external options.  He was the subject of a number of rumors as the season neared the Trade Deadline this past season, but the deal never developed.  Now, with the first base spot wide open at this point, the Bucs may be more willing to pay what they weren’t back in July.  Pena, of course, doesn’t hit for average by any means, but would add a considerable amount of power to a team that is desperate need of long-ball help.

Stay tuned to Fans From The Stands for reactions to all the latest Pirates’ news.

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

Bucco Blurb: Future Of First Base?

There’s no denying the fact that the Pirates have a lot of questions to answer and decisions to make in regards to their prospective 2012 roster.  Perhaps the greatest question at this point, though, is who will occupy first base when the Bucs open their season in April?  With the tragedy that was Lyle Overbay in a Pirates’ uniform is a thing of the past, Derrek Lee’s brief stint was incredibly impressive, but factors including his age, salary, and interest level, have raised many doubts as to whether or not he will be a Pirate next year.

That being said, the Pirates have said that one of their priorities is to fill this hole at the corner, and while the free agent market is rather weak compared to previous seasons, there are some options available for the Pirates to acquire a seasoned veteran first baseman.

Yahoo! Sports contributor Lee Andrew Henderson’s November 2 article suggested ten first base options for the Bucs, and in reflection, some appear plausible, others are pipe dreams, while a few are nightmares.

Henderson’s top suggestion, according to the article, is Adam LaRoche?!  As we all know, LaRoche already had some time in Pittsburgh, and was one of the more frustrating Pirates in recent memory.  During his time with Pittsburgh, he hit .270 with 20 homeruns and 80 RBI’s, but for those of us who watched him play, he had no clutch gene, and the majority of his offensive contributions came at times when the game and/or the season was already out of reach. 

Other notables include Josh Willingham and Carlos Pena, two players who were rumors to be in negotiations with the Pirates prior to the trade deadline this past season.  Mark Reynolds was also mentioned, who, despite his incredibly high number of strikeouts, has seasons of 28, 44, 32, and 37 homeruns.  Andrew McCutchen led the Pirates last season with 23 homeruns.  Would the Bucs be willing to tolerate the strikeouts of a guy like Reynolds or Pena in exchange for the power?  They already sent a record last season for strikeouts, but they had no power in their lineup.

James Loney is certainly an attractive option, but, as stated in the article, there may be some bigger market frontrunners in line for him, and the Pirates clearly can’t compete with them.  The mention of Nick Swisher is a laugher. This guy will not end up in Pittsburgh. 

Finally, two of Henderon’s suggestions are players who have most recently worn a Pirates’ uniform:  Ryan Doumit and Derrek Lee.  He’s suggesting that Doumit could platoon first base with Garrett Jones.  We all saw how the platoon strategy worked with Jones in right field…it was horrible.  Doumit isn’t a great catcher, but he’s not the answer at first base either.  As for Lee, he put on a spectacular show in Pittsburgh following his acquisition at the trade deadline.  He is clearly aging but still has some good baseball left in him.  It appears as though the Bucs would be interested in bringing Lee back assuming financial factors are agreed upon and Lee wants to play next year. 

An internal rumor in Pittsburgh that is Pedro Alvarez will make the transition to first base, but after the horrid year he had in 2011, it seems ludicrous to add a position change to Pedro’s list of adjustments.  Regardless, the Pirates are (or at least should be) conscientious not to allow another Lyle Overbay-type situation as they did this past season.  Loney, Pena, Lee?  How about Logan Morrison of the Florida Marlins?  Pena seems to be the most plausible option, and he’s proven to be able to add a serious amount of pop to the lineup, something the Pirates desperately need going forward.

Stay tuned to Fans From The Stands for fan reactions to the latest Pirates’ news and updates.

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

Brewers' Power Too Much For Bucs In Season-Finale

By Chad Carlson

Photo Credit: Darren Hauck/Getty Images

The Pirates entered tonight’s game at Miller Park trying to avoid another 90-loss season.  After playing highly competitive baseball through the first four months of the season, the last two have been very frustrating for the Bucs and their fans.

Pittsburgh lost to Milwaukee tonight in predictable fashion.  The Brewers’ power was too much for the Pirates, and they made the most of their offensive opportunities as they beat up on the Bucs in the final regular season game by a final score of 7-3.

It was a frustrating night for the Pirates, which has become familiar for fans in recent weeks, and against the Brewers in particular.  The Bucs managed just six hits tonight, while the pitching staff gave up three homeruns to Brewers’ hitters.

Andrew McCutchen was 0-3 tonight, dropping his batting average to .259 for the season.  Derrek Lee had a double in the fourth inning, increasing his average to .340 as a Pirate this year, while Neil Walker went 2-4 with two doubles.  And in what could be (and most likely will be) his final at-bat as a Pirate, Ryan Doumit flew out to left field in the eighth inning.

Pedro Alvarez struck out looking in the ninth to record the Pirates' final out of the season.

Obviously, it was a disappointing way to end the 2011 season with a thumping by a team that has done that to the Pirates year after year.  In a way, it is indicative of where the Bucs stand right now.  They are not at the same level as the N.L. Central-winning Brewers.  The Bucs competed with Milwaukee and St. Louis through July, but they couldn’t hold on as their schedule became especially brutal as the summer drew to a close.

The Pirates end 2011 with a 72-90 record, invoking mixed emotions from fans.  There are those who remember when the Bucs were 51-44 in mid-July, only to fall apart, going just 21-46 the rest of the season.  The positive spin sees the Pirates with a 15-game improvement from last year.  But 2011 will only be seen as a step in the right direction if 2012 brings a bigger improvement in the record and the standings.

Stay tuned to Fans From The Stands over the next several days, and the entire offseason, as we recap the season, discuss the highs and lows, and look ahead to next year. 

Record Vs. Brewers: 3-12

Record Vs. N.L. Central: 39-41

Record On The Road: 36-45

Overall Record: 72-90

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

Pirates Drop Final Game Of 2011 At PNC Park

by Zane Heiple

Photo by Getty Images

One of the storylines for the Pittsburgh Pirates during the 2011 season was the inability to sweep a series.  The Pirates came into today with ten previous failed attempts to sweep a team after taking the first two in a three game series.  Their 5-4 loss to the Cincinnati Reds today marked the eleventh time that has happened.

The Reds got out to an early lead by scoring three runs in the first two innings off of Buccos starter James McDonald.  McDonald would improve over the course of his final three innings as he would last five innings today allowing only one earned run and six hits, while striking out four and walking two.

Pittsburgh’s offense would battle back tying the game at three in the bottom part of the second inning.  After a Derrek Lee single and Ryan Ludwick walk, Chase d’Arnaud would triple both of them home.  Michael McKenry would then hit a sacrifice fly to bring d’Arnaud home and tie the game.

The sixth inning saw the Reds regain the lead and score what would be the game winning run off of relief pitcher Daniel Moskos.  With runners on second and third Dontrelle Willis would double home both runners.  The Pirates then cut into the lead in the bottom part of the ninth when Neil Walker doubled in Andrew McCutchen.  Unfortunately neither Garrett Jones or Pedro Alvarez were able to bring in Walker.

While the Pirates road record improved dramatically from 2010 this year.  The home record was a disappointment as they won five less games at PNC Park this year.  Pittsburgh will head to Milwaukee for their final series of the year against the N.L. Central champions Brewers.  Charlie Morton will make his final start of the season, while Shaun Marcum will go for the Brew Crew.

Record vs. Reds:  10-5
Record vs. N.L. Central 38-39
Record at PNC Park:  36-45
Overall Record 71-88

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!!!

Ohlendorf Ineffective In Pirates' 8-5 Loss To Diamondbacks

By Chad Carlson

Photo Credit: Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Wow, does anyone want to be in the starting pitching rotation next season?  The past few weeks have spelled disaster for Pirates’ starters, as all potential members of the 2012 rotation have been obliterated. 

Ross Ohlendorf, though, had a surprisingly solid start last Thursday against the Dodgers, giving up two runs through seven innings, while earning his first victory of the season.  The Bucs, and Ohledorf, were hoping he could continue that success this afternoon in the series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

That didn’t happen.

Ohlendorf was tattooed by the Diamondbacks’ batters today, right from the start, and he never even made it out of the third inning.  Arizona went on to win the game 8-5.

He gave up three runs in the first inning, and after getting through the second inning, he surrendered another run in third inning and loaded the bases without recording an out.  Clint Hurdle had seen enough and replaced him with Jared Hughes.

In all, Ohlendorf was charged for seven runs on seven hits through 2+ innings.  His ERA is now at 8.29.  Ouch.  Hughes was charged for one run on two hits through his inning of work.  The rest of the bullpen, though the game was out of reach, pitched scoreless baseball.

Derrek Lee was the lone positive of today’s game, going 3-4 with a homerun and two RBI’s.  With the Pirates’ current first baseman situation up in the air right now, Lee would be a welcomed returner to the club next year.  But only time will tell.

Ryan Ludwick hit a solo homerun in the second inning, and Jason Jaramillo smacked a pinch-hit RBI double in the eighth inning.  As a team, the Bucs tallied 11 hits, while leaving seven runners on base.

After falling behind 8-1, the Bucs slowly battled back, scoring a single run in the fourth, sixth, seventh, and eighth innings each.  They had a chance to creep within a single run in the eighth, but Ryan Doumit grounded out with runners on second and third to end the inning.

Today’s game marked the Pirates’ 87^th loss of the season.  More worrisome, though, is the fact that they’re struggling to get quality starts.  Jeff Karstens and Charlie Morton have continued to show glimpses of what they did earlier in the season, and are favorites to return to the rotation next year, along with Kevin Correia.  But there are two other open spots that seem far out of reach for Ohlendorf, Aaron Thompson, Brad Lincoln, or anyone else. 

The Pirates have only six games remaining on their schedule this season, three of which will be played against the Cincinnati Reds at PNC Park this weekend.  Pittsburgh will need to go 4-2 the rest of the way to avoid another 90-loss season.

Record Vs. Diamondbacks: 3-3

Record Vs. N.L. West: 13-20

Record On The Road: 35-43

Overall Record: 69-87

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

Morton, Pirates Snap Four Game Skid With Win Over Diamondbacks

by Zane Heiple

Photo by AP

The Pittsburgh Pirates were in need of a total team effort tonight to end the current four game slide that they were on.  Tonight’s game was reminiscent of the earlier part of the season where a strong pitching effort was backed by solid defense and a few offense bright spots that put some runs on the board.  Everything started with Charlie Morton who was lights out on the mound tonight going six innings allowing only three hits while walking three and striking out five would pick up his tenth win of the year.  He was also doing damage at the plate going 2-3 on the night.

The Pirates offense was able to get to Arizona Diamondbacks starter Dan Hudson tonight as he would only last five innings giving up three runs on seven hits while striking out four and walking three.  The Buccos would score in the first inning off of a Neil Walker double that scored Alex Presley.  Pedro Alvarez showed up tonight hitting a solo home run in the second inning to deep right field.  Run number three would cross the plate in the fifth off of a Ryan Doumit double which scored Andrew McCutchen.

Pittsburgh’s bullpen came into the fold during the seventh inning, and the beginning was very shaky.  Chris Leroux would give up two hits on eleven pitches and not record an out.  He would be replaced by Jason Grilli who would allow one of the inherited runners to score but shut the door to allow the Pirates to carry a two run lead into the eighth. 

The Buccos would get that run back and another one when Derrek Lee would hit a two run shot to left field.  This would allow even more breathing room for the pen in the eighth and ninth innings, which would be needed as Jose Veras allowed a run, while earning only one out.  He would leave the game with runners on first and third when replaced by Tony Watson.  Watson got out of the inning but not before the D-Backs collected their third run of the game when Alvarez made an errant throw to first base on a bunt by Willie Bloomquist.  Joel Hanrahan would enter in the ninth and earn his 39^th save of the year as the Pirates would go on to win 5-3.

Even in victory there were a couple of blunders.  The first was base running mistakes as Morton and Pedro Ciriaco who were picked off on the base paths.  The other was the bullpen struggling over the seventh and eighth innings.  These two teams will wrap up their regular season meetings tomorrow at 3:40.  The Pirates will send Ross Ohlendorf to the hill as he looks for another good outing heading into 2012.  The Diamondbacks will send Wade Miley and his 4.24 ERA to the bump.

Record vs. Diamondbacks:  3-2
Record vs. N.L. West:  13-19
Record on the Road:  35-42
Overall Record 69-86

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!!!

Dodgers Use The Long Ball To Rout Pirates 6-1

 By Chad Carlson

Photo Credit: AP

During the course of this uniquely up-and-down 2011 season for the Pirates, James McDonald has shown glimpses of pitching brilliance as a starting pitcher, so much so that it made some wonder why the Los Angeles Dodgers could part ways with him.

There have also been games like tonight…when he struggles to record each out, can’t locate his pitches, and when he does, he serves them over the plate and gives up homeruns.

J-Mac pitched made it through only three innings against his former team, being tagged for five runs on seven hits.  Two of those hits were homeruns, a three-run shot by James Loney in the first inning and a two-run blast by Juan Rivera. 

That was more than enough for Dodgers’ starter Ted Lilly, who dazzled and confused Pirates’ hitters through his seven innings of work.  Lilly gave up only four hits and one run, while striking out seven batters. 

The Dodgers won the game easily tonight over our Pirates, 6-1.

Josh Harrison’s RBI double in the second inning was the only productive offense the Bucs could muster all night.

On nights like this, there are always plenty of frustrating moments.  The top of the eighth, though, was the most aggravating of the night for Pirates’ fans.  The Bucs loaded the bases with one out and were in position to at least make the game interesting.  The Dodgers’ Kenley Jansen struck out Ryan Ludwick and Garrett Jones to end the inning and the threat.

The offense really struggled tonight for Pittsburgh.  The top three hitters in the lineup, Alex Presley, Chase d’Arnaud, and Andrew McCutchen, went a combined 3-14.  d’Arnaud’s average is just .195 in his 42-game MLB season, while due to a quite extensive slump, Cutch’s average has fallen to .264.

As always, we at Fans From The Stands try to find a bright note to every game for the Bucs, although some nights are more difficult than others.  Derrek Lee reached base three times tonight (with one hit, a walk, and a HBP), while the latest Pirates’ acquisition, Matt Pagnozzi had a pinch-hit single in the fifth inning.

After a very encouraging start to this series, the Pirates have been totally outplayed in every aspect of the game by the Dodgers.  The Bucs used six pitchers tonight, and while no one was exceptional, Jared Hughes continued his scoreless inning streak.  Daniel Moskos gave up one unearned run in the fifth inning.

The road trip will only get more difficult for Pittsburgh, as they will leave Los Angeles tomorrow and head to Arizona for a three-game set against the N.L. west-division leading Diamondbacks.  The Bucs will look to earn a series-split with the Dodgers tomorrow afternoon.  Brad Lincoln will make the start, looking for his second win of the season.  Lincoln comes in with a 1-2 record and a 3.73 ERA for the season.

Record Vs. Dodgers: 2-5

Record Vs. N.L. West: 12-17

Record On The Road: 34-40

Overall Record: 68-84

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

Ohlendorf Throws Seven Innings, Hits HR In Bucs 6-2 Victory Over Dodgers

By Chad Carlson

Photo Credit: Harry How/Getty Images

The Pirates began a difficult west-coast road trip tonight in the first of a four game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.  In tonight’s matchup, Ross Ohlendorf took the mound against Dana Eveland, who was a September call-up for the Dodgers. 

In his first game on September 1 in a make-up contest at PNC Park, Eveland had the Pirates guessing all, earning a victory against his former team, just as he did in his second start against the San Francisco Giants.  In fact, in his two starts with the big club this year, he was 2-0 with a 0.60 ERA.  So why hasn’t he been the Dodgers all season?

Because he gives up homeruns to opposing pitchers.

Ohlendorf hammered a three-run homerun to right field in the second inning, scoring Ryan Doumit and Ryan Ludwick, giving the Bucs a 4-1 lead at the time.  The round-tripper was Ross’s first career homerun, leading the Pirates to a 6-2 victory over the Dodgers.

More importantly for Ohlendorf and the Pirates, though, he pitched very well tonight.  After a rough first inning where he gave up an RBI ground-rule double to Justin Sellers, Ross settled down and held the Dodgers in check for the remainder of his seven-inning evening.  He gave up two runs on four hits, striking out six and he didn’t walk a batter.

Ohlendorf won his first game of the season tonight, and tallied his first road victory since August 2009 when he defeated the Colorado Rockies.

This was a huge performance for Ohlendorf, and nice to see for Pirates’ fans.  With the status of the starting pitching rotation up in the air as we approach the end of the season, the Bucs are certainly eyeing up every start by starters like Brad Lincoln, Charlie Morton, Jeff Karstens, Jeff Locke, and yes, Ross Ohlendorf. 

Jason Grilli, Evan Meek, and Joel Hanrahan pitched the eighth and ninth innings to end the game.  After recording the first pair of outs, Meek loaded the bases in the ninth before Clint Hurdle gave the ball to Hanrahan to finish the Dodgers off to end the game.

On another positive note, the Pirates’ offense came alive tonight, accumulating eleven hits against Dodgers’ pitching.  Doumit, Ludwick, Andrew McCutchen, and Brandon Wood each had two hits and an RBI for Pittsburgh, while Neil Walker and Alex Presley added a hit a piece.  The only starter to not have a hit was Chase d’Arnaud, who did reach base after he was hit by a pitch in the second inning.

This is sure to be a tough seven-game road trip at L.A. and Arizona, and it was very important to have a strong performance here in the first game.  The Pirates got a strong outing from their starter, the batters were patient at the plate, stretched at-bats, and didn’t miss opportunities to drive in runs.  The bullpen came in and shut things down.  All in all, considering the skid the Pirates have been on the past month and a half, this was a very satisfying victory.

The Bucs and Dodgers will do it again tomorrow night at 10:10PM EST.  Jeff Locke will get the start for Pittsburgh, looking for his first victory.  In his first game on September 10, he gave up three runs on five hits through five innings in a 3-0 loss to the Florida Marlins. 

Record Vs. Dodgers: 2-3

Record Vs. N.L. West: 12-15

Record On The Road: 34-38

Overall Record: 68-82

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

Pirates Clinch 19th Straight Losing Season With Defeat To Cardinals

by Zane Heiple

Photo by AP

After being in the running for the division crown throughout the first four months of the season, fans could see the hopes of a plus .500 season slip out of the Pittsburgh Pirates grasp with their awful 8-22 run during the month of August.  Today’s 3-2 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals clinched that 19^th straight losing season to extend the North American record.

The loss today was like many of the losses that Pittsburgh has suffered throughout the 2011 season.  A great pitching performance and solid defense was wasted by lack of offense.  The Pirates offense mustered eight hits today, one more than St. Louis, but only scored two runs.  The second inning started off as a great opportunity to bust the game open.  Derrek Lee started off with a single, which was followed by a double by Ryan Ludwick.  With runners on second and third, Pedro Alvarez came to the plate and grounded into a fielder’s choice, which resulted in Lee being tagged out at home plate.  Next up was Ronny Cedeno who would hit into a double play to end any threat.  This type of inning sums up much of the season.

The Buccos were able to tie the game in the third inning.  After Michael McKenry double, Alex Presley would hit a one out RBI double.  Unfortunately Neil Walker would ground out and then Andrew McCutchen would strike out to leave Presley at third base.  The fourth inning saw the Red Birds score the winning run, as Yadier Molina would double home Lance Berkman and Allen Craig.  Pittsburgh cut into the lead in the sixth inning as Lee would double home Presley. 

Charlie Morton started the game and would go seven innings allowing three runs on six hits.  He would strike out six and walk three, before being lifted in place of Tony Watson.  Watson would strike out two batters and not allow a hit in his inning of work.  Jared Hughes finished the game off with one inning of work in the ninth.

While it is depressing to see another season come and go with the Pirates continuing to lose.  There have been some upsides to this season, which we will talk about in two weeks.  The Buccos wrapped up this nine game home stand with a 3-6 record.  They will now hit the road for seven games starting tomorrow night with a four game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.  Ross Ohlendorf will take on Dana Eveland with first pitch scheduled for 10:10pm.

Record vs. Cardinals:  7-9
Record vs. N.L. Central:  36-38
Record at PNC Park:  34-44
Overall Record:  67-82

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!!!

McDonald's Strong Start Lifts Pirates Past Astros

by Zane Heiple

Photo By AP

While the rest of us were enjoying a day off from work, Mother Nature was working as she delayed the start to today’s game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Houston Astros.  Even when the game did start rain was present throughout the contest.  James McDonald handled the weather and Astros fairly well this afternoon as he would go 7.1 innings allowing one run on three hits, with three walks and six strikeouts as he picked his ninth win on the season today.  The seven plus inning of work was the longest of the year for McDonald.

Houston was able to strike first today.  In the third inning Astros pitcher Henry Sosa was able to draw a four pitch walk.  Then with two outs Jose Altuve hit a fly ball to right field that Jose Tabata misread, which allowed Sosa to score and Altuve to end up with a triple.

Pittsburgh would rally in the fourth inning.  With one out and runners on first and second, Ryan Doumit would double to centerfield, scoring Andrew McCutchen from second base.  Josh Harrison would continue swinging a hot bat with a single to center, which brought home Derrek Lee.  The Pirates would add an insurance run in the eighth inning off the bat of Lee, who when healthy and in a Buccos uniform seems to be a source of power that this lineup desperately needs.  It will be interesting to see if Pittsburgh management will make Lee an offer to remain with the Pirates in 2012.

With a two run lead Joel Hanrahan would come out of the bullpen to earn his 35^th save of the year, which game the Buccos a 3-1 win.  Even though both of these teams are out of contention, Pittsburgh is looking to play for pride as they were swept by Houston a week ago.  With every win, the Pirates increase their win total from last year as they currently have eight more than they did at the end of 2010. 

A few side notes, Chris Snyder announced today that he will not be back this season, which should not be a surprise to fans, since there is less than a month less in the season.  Tabata left the game today with discomfort in his left wrist which has been bothering him since last week.  Jeff Karstens will miss another start on Wednesday to rest his arm, Brian Burres will start in his place.  Game two of this series will be tomorrow night at 7:05pm Brett Myers will take on Brad Lincoln.

Record vs. Astros:  10-6
Record vs. N.L. Central:  34-35
Record at PNC Park:  32-38
Overall Record:  65-76

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!!!

Lee's Two Home Runs Can't Lift Pirates Past Cubs

by Zane Heiple

Photo by Getty Images

There was a lot of energy at PNC Park tonight as Derrek Lee and Ryan Ludwick would make their debuts in Pittsburgh Pirates uniforms tonight as they did battle with the Chicago Cubs.  Lee would have an amazing night at the plate going 2-4 with two home runs and three RBI.  Ludwick did not have as much luck as he would go 0-3 with a walk and two strikeouts.  Unfortunately for Pittsburgh Lee’s homers were not enough as they dropped their fourth straight game with a 5-3 loss to the Cubs.

Paul Maholm was on the mound tonight and thru the first five innings looked like the pitcher we have seen all season long, consistent with little to no run support.  Thru five innings he gave up one run on one hit.  It was the sixth inning that would haunt him.  Maholm was hit hard this inning allowing three runs on three hits.  Walks also hurt Paul tonight as he would give up three on the night.  When it was said and done, Maholm would go 6 innings allowing four runs on six hits  with three K’s and three walks.  The bullpen held it together as Jason Grilli pitched one inning of scoreless baseball striking out one batter.  Daniel McCutchen did give up an insurance run to the Cubs in the ninth.  He would pitch two innings striking out one and walking two. 

The offense did seem to gain a little bit of a spark tonight as seven of the eight position players to start the game did have at least one hit.  Unfortunately they did not come thru when it counted as eleven Buccos would be left on base.  Another chilling statistic was that out of the ten Pirates hits on the night only three were extra base hits, the two Lee home runs and an eighth inning double by Neal Walker.  Pedro Alvarez had two singles tonight but made a base running error when he was picked off second base by Chicago starter Carlos Zambrano.

This four game slide has the Pirates only a game over .500 now after they had been as many as seven over.  It also sees them drop to 5.5 games back of the division leading Milwaukee Brewers.  If this team is not feeling the pressure of a pennant race yet, I’m not sure they will.  With the loss tonight, these next three games against the Cubs become that much more important.  Kevin Correia will look to have a good outing at home tomorrow, while Randy Wells will look to give the Cubbies their third win in a row.

Record vs. Cubs:  6-4
Record vs. N.L. Central:  25-17
Record at Home:  26-26
Overall Record:  54-53

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!!!

Meet Your Bucs: Derrek Lee and Ryan Ludwick

by Zane Heiple

With the trade deadline passing on Sunday afternoon, the Pittsburgh Pirates picked up two players that they hope will contribute towards making a run at the National League Central Division title in 2011.  On Saturday the Pirates acquired firstbaseman Derrek Lee from the Baltimore Orioles for minor league prospect Aaron Baker.  General Manager Neal Huntington was not done yet, as he made a move for Padres outfielder Ryan Ludwick before the deadline had passed for a player to be named or cash considerations.

Photo by zimbio.com

Lee is a former first round pick of the San Diego Padres in the 1993 Major League Baseball draft.  He would debut with the Padres on April 28, 1997.  In 1998 Derrek was traded to the Florida Marlins for pitcher Kevin Brown.  Lee would end up being a member of the Marlins 2003 World Series Championship team and win his first gold glove at first base that season.  After that World Series season he was traded again, this time to the Chicago Cubs.  His best overall season in a Chicago uniform came in 2005 when he would hit .335 with 46 HR and 107 RBI.  Even with his stats slowly dropping after this season, the Atlanta Braves sought him prior to the 2010 trade deadline where he was traded for three Braves pitching prospects.  In 2011 he was signed in the offseason by the Orioles.  In 85 games this year with the Orioles Lee is hitting .246 with 12 HR and 46 RBI.

Photo by zimbio.com

Ludwick was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the second round of the 1999 MLB draft out of UNLV.  Prior to the 2002 season he was traded to the Texas Rangers where he would make his big league debut on June 5 of that season.  This season would be cut short when he fractured his hip and ultimately lead to him being traded to the Cleveland Indians during the 2003 season.  Between 03-06 Ryan would spend time between the Majors and the Minors before being dealt to the St. Louis Cardinals in 2007.  His best year in the Majors came with the Cardinals in 2008 when he batted .299 with 37 HR and 113 RBI.  During the 2010 season he was sent to the Padres in a three team deal.  One of the reasons why San Diego felt like he was expendable to the Pirates was because of his struggles at Petco Park.  In 2011 Ludwick is batting .238 with 11 HR and 64 RBI.

While both of these players are past their primes, I feel that their experience in playoff runs with be a huge upgrade for the Pirates clubhouse.  This will also add some much needed pop to the Pittsburgh offense.  It was also good to see that the Pirates were buyers at this years trade deadline and did not have to give up hardly any talent to do so.