In our daily Wake-Up Call, we get you ready for the baseball day with a complete look at all things Pittsburgh Pirates.
A Losing Streak Ends
Last night the Pittsburgh Pirates beat the Houston Astros 7-1 to finally end their four-game losing streak. The Pirates were pretty much in control the entire game. They scored four first-inning runs off of Astros’ starter Joe Musgrove. The offensive explosion really was a needed sight for a team that has been struggling to score runs.
The team pretty much did what you want after a big first inning. They kept adding on and eventually cruised to an easy victory. They never let the Astros have any life and it felt nice to have an easy win.
The Pirates will look to win the series with Gerrit Cole on the mound, looking to bounce back from a few mediocre starts.
Super Nova
The biggest story from yesterday’s game was the dominant start of Ivan Nova. He threw a complete game, allowed one run on six hits and struck out six. He was super efficient as he only needed 98 pitches to finish the game.
Since being acquired by the Pirates Nova has been very good. He has a 2.84ERA with a 1.12 WHIP. I don’t think anyone expected those results when he was traded for. It’s been something the backend of the rotation has desperately needed.
In addition to his complete game, Nova also won our coveted Player of the Game Poll:
The #Pirates offense returns in a 7-1 win over the #Astros. Who was your Player of the Game tonight?
— Jason Rollison (@jrollisonpgh) August 24, 2016
A Hot Cup of Coffee
The other big start of yesterday’s victory was Gregory Polanco. Polanco went 3-4 with two home runs, three RBIs, and three runs scored. He was absolutely dynamic yesterday and continued to prove why he is one of the best young superstars in the game.
This season has really been a breakout for Polanco as he’s finally shaking off the early career jitters to blossom into a very good MLB player. It’s very exciting getting to watch Polanco grow before eyes. It’s even more exciting knowing he’ll be a Pirate for years to come.
Baseball Talk on the Web
Tim Tebow holding workout for interested MLB teams on Aug. 30, hoping to get pro deal
MLB announces postseason schedule
Dodgers send record 27th player to the Disabled List
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