The Pirates are in the midst of their second losing skid of the season as they were swept out of Atlanta in a 3-game series with the Braves.
Monday – The Braves used three 2-run shots (Heyward, Freeman, McCann) to propel the Braves to a 7 – 2 victory over A.J. Burnett (L, 3 – 6) and the Bucs. Russell Martin and Clint Hurdle were both ejected by home plate umpire, Dan Issogna, for arguing a questionable strike zone. That seemed to play a part in Burnett’s demise as it clearly affected him.
Tuesday – The Pirates built a 4 – 2 lead midway through the game for starter, Jeff Locke (ND) thanks to homers by Gaby Sanchez and Pedro Alvarez and 2 RBI by Andrew McCutchen. The Braves would tie the game, though, as Ryan Reid gave up a 2-run shot to B.J. Upton in his second ML appearance to tie the score at 4. The Braves would then score off of Mark Melancon in the tenth for the walk-off victory. Final Score: Braves 5, Pirates 4 / 10 inn.
Wednesday – The Bucs were doomed from the start as starter, Wandy Rodriguez (L, 6 – 4) only lasted four batters before having to leave the game due to soreness in his left forearm. His status is currently day-to-day as he immediately got on a flight and went back to Pittsburgh for evaluation. The Pirates couldn’t do much at the plate, either, as Braves starter, Julio Teheran (W, 4 – 2) took a no-hitter into the eighth before giving a two-out pinch-hit single to Brandon Inge. Final Score: Braves 5, Pirates 0.
The Pirates (35 – 25) have a day off today before starting a 3-game set in Chicago against the Cubs. This is an important series for the Buccos as they will play the Dodgers, Giants, Reds, and Angels after this series.
(Photo Credit: AP Photo/John Bazemore)
