Overall in this series, the Pirates’ bullpen was really subpar again and absolutely needs to improve, but an ugly win is better than a pretty loss any day.
The offense really did a great job once again, scoring 24 runs on 36 hits and going 11-35 (.314) with runners in scoring position in the series. They continue to be relentless in their approach. Once Jung Ho Kang comes back, offense should only get better and that’s a wonderful thought.
The Pirates began their west coast trip with a pretty poor series in San Diego, but recovered very nicely by winning two of three from the Diamondbacks and sweeping an abridged three game series against the Rockies. Going 6-3 on any road trip is pretty good, especially after losing two games at the beginning of a trip.
This Pirates’ offense continues to be one of the most impressive in the entire league because the power is down as expected, but it hasn’t slowed the lineup down at all. They’re currently third in total at-bats, and runs scored, first in hits, batting average, and on-base percentage. They may not hit many home runs, but that hasn’t hindered the offense. If the pitching is ever able to catch up and just be average, the Pirates could be a huge threat to any of the league’s top teams.
The Pirates return home to a mostly rainy and gray Pittsburgh to play a three game series against the Cincinnati Reds. Juan Nicasio (2-2, 4.50ERA) will be on the mound, facing Dan Straily. (0-0, 3.50ERA)
Series Result: Pirates win 3-0
2016 win/loss record: 13-9
2016 series record: 4-3
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