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Coming into the season, it was assumed by many that Jameson Taillon would step up and become the ace of the Pittsburgh Pirates staff.
It’s only been two starts into the 2018 season, but mission accomplished. His performance will surely have interested parties scrambling for their latest baseball sportsbook to get in on the action while he is still being underestimated.
Taillon was nothing short of brilliant on Sunday, firing a one-hit, complete game shutout in a 5-0 victory over the visiting Cincinnati Reds.
The right-hander walked just two and struck out seven in the victory, which brought the surprising Bucs to 7-2 on the young season. Everything about Taillon was stellar, allowing only a third-inning single to mound opponent Tyler Mahle on the afternoon.
Taillon was in attack mode all day, mostly relying on his fastball as his outing helped the Bucs take three-of-four from the Reds, an accomplishment all by itself the past few years.
“He’s focused, he’s committed, he wants to get something done, as do all of them in there,” Pirates manager Clint Hurdle told reporters after the game. “He led the way today. And he showed the other guys in that rotation. Gave them a nice blueprint to follow moving forward.”
Taillon helped his own cause with an RBI single in the second and was helped by a four-run fifth as both Gregory Polanco and Corey Dickerson homered, as both remain hot with the bats.
There was once again no one at PNC Park, but the few fans that were in attendance witnessed a treat.
As for Taillon, it’s only April so let’s not hand him the Cy Young just yet, but it’s nonetheless been a very good start to the season.
Heading to Chicago
Many people will say that the Pirates haven’t played anyone yet.
That changes this afternoon when the Bucs head to Wrigley Field to take on the Chicago Cubs.
It’s the home opener for Chicago after playing its first nine on the road.
Ivan Nova (0-1, 6.10 ERA) gets the ball for the Pirates. He will be opposed by Chicago’s Tyler Chatwood (0-1, 1.50). First pitch is scheduled for 2:20 PM EST.
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Our 280-page Pittsburgh Pirates 2018 season preview book is now available on Amazon in e-book and paperback formats! CLICK HERE to learn more. Makes a perfect gift for any Pirates fan in your life.
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