Here are some trends to keep an eye on this week during the Pirates series at Cincinnati against the Reds (Hint: Can the Pirates beat a weaker opponent on the road or will their poor road record worsen?):
Monday: Paul Maholm (Pittsburgh) vs. Aaron Harang (Cincinnati)
Maholm only pitched 2 2/3 innings in Thursday's rainout with the Yankees and is going on three days rest. ... Brandon Phillips owns Maholm. Phillips is batting .391 with three home runs and seven RBI off the Pirates left-hander. ... Harang is killing his team, along with many fantasy owners, with a 3-10 record. ... Jason Bay is batting .395 with five home runs and nine RBI against Harang. ... Ryan Doumit is batting .333 with two home runs in 15 at bats.
Tuesday: Zach Duke (Pittsburgh) vs. Edinson Volquez (Cincinnati)
Duke is 2-2 with a 4.56 ERA in his career against the Reds. ... Adam Dunn is .556 with a home run and three RBI off Duke. ... As bad as Harang has been, Volquez has been an All-Star. Acquired in the Josh Hamilton trade, Volquez is pitching at a Cy Young level.
Wednesday: TBA (Likely John Van Benschoten) vs. Daryl Thompson (Cincinnati)
Van Benschoten has never faced the Reds. ... This will be Thompson's third major league start.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Pirates pitcher batting 8th
For the first time since 1956, a Pirates pitcher will bat somewhere other than ninth in the batting order.
Paul Maholm, Monday's starting pitcher, will bat eighth tonight against Cincinnati. Shortstop Jack Wilson will bat in the ninth spot.
The last time a Pirates pitcher didn't bat ninth was Sept. 3, 1956 during a doubleheader. The Pirates went almost three straight weeks with the pitcher in the seventh spot of the order until that day.
It will be interesting to hear what manager John Russell's logic is for the move. My guess is that moving Wilson, who is on a tear of late, to the ninth spot will provide almost a second leadoff man and help turn the order over easier.
Paul Maholm, Monday's starting pitcher, will bat eighth tonight against Cincinnati. Shortstop Jack Wilson will bat in the ninth spot.
The last time a Pirates pitcher didn't bat ninth was Sept. 3, 1956 during a doubleheader. The Pirates went almost three straight weeks with the pitcher in the seventh spot of the order until that day.
It will be interesting to hear what manager John Russell's logic is for the move. My guess is that moving Wilson, who is on a tear of late, to the ninth spot will provide almost a second leadoff man and help turn the order over easier.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Snell on DL, more moves coming
The Pirates placed starting pitcher Ian Snell on the 15-day disabled list Thursday in order to make room on the active roster for new acquisiton relief pitcher Denny Bautista.
Snell was diagnosed with medial epicondylitis in his right elbow – his pitching elbow – during Sunday's start against Toronto. The injury needs rest and should not require surgery.
The Pirates acquired Bautista Wednesday in a trade with Detroit in which Pittsburgh sent Kyle Pearson to the Tigers. Bautista will pitch out of middle relief to start but could move into a later role in the bullpen.
Snell was diagnosed with medial epicondylitis in his right elbow – his pitching elbow – during Sunday's start against Toronto. The injury needs rest and should not require surgery.
The Pirates acquired Bautista Wednesday in a trade with Detroit in which Pittsburgh sent Kyle Pearson to the Tigers. Bautista will pitch out of middle relief to start but could move into a later role in the bullpen.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
All about Joba
Yankees pitcher Joba Chamberlain came into Wendesday's start with a lot of hype and lived up to the billing.
The hard-throwing 22-year-old consistently threw his fastball in the mid-to-upper 90's and didn't give the Pirates much of a chance to do anything. He finished with 6 2/3 shutout innings and seven strikeouts.
"He worked from 93-98 with a breaking ball and a slider and hitting his spots," Pirates manager John Russell said. "That's pretty tough to hit."
"He was good tonight, he's got really good stuff," Pirates starting pitcher Zach Duke said. "He shut us down."
"When he throws 97-98 with a good breaking pitch, he's got real good stuff," said shortstop Jack Wilson, who had two singles and was hit by a pitch by Chamberlain.
Even his veteran teammates are impressed.
"He's been throwing well for us," Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter said. "I don't know how many starts he's had. Now it seems like he has no pitchcount. He's going out there, he's throwing strikes and he's not hurting himself. And even if he gets in jams he's capable of striking guys out."
The hard-throwing 22-year-old consistently threw his fastball in the mid-to-upper 90's and didn't give the Pirates much of a chance to do anything. He finished with 6 2/3 shutout innings and seven strikeouts.
"He worked from 93-98 with a breaking ball and a slider and hitting his spots," Pirates manager John Russell said. "That's pretty tough to hit."
"He was good tonight, he's got really good stuff," Pirates starting pitcher Zach Duke said. "He shut us down."
"When he throws 97-98 with a good breaking pitch, he's got real good stuff," said shortstop Jack Wilson, who had two singles and was hit by a pitch by Chamberlain.
Even his veteran teammates are impressed.
"He's been throwing well for us," Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter said. "I don't know how many starts he's had. Now it seems like he has no pitchcount. He's going out there, he's throwing strikes and he's not hurting himself. And even if he gets in jams he's capable of striking guys out."
Pirates acquire Bautista
The Pirates made a trade Wednesday afternoon, acquiring relief pitcher Denny Bautista from Detroit in exchange for minor league relief pitcher Kyle Pearson.
Bautista, who is scheduled to arrive Thursday, has made 21 career starts but will start out pitching in middle relief according to Pirates general manager Neal Huntington.
“He’s a nice addition,” Huntington said. “He’s an upgrade over what we currently have.”
When Bautista arrives, the Pirates will need to make a corresponding move on the 25-man roster in order to fill Friday’s pitching vacancy, though Huntington said that likely won’t occur until after Thursday’s game. The same goes for Saturday’s starting pitcher, which will be likely be announced after Friday’s game.
Bautista, 27, began this season with Detroit and was 0-1 with a 3.32 ERA in 16 games (19 innings pitched). Bautista struck out 10 and walked 14 before being designated for assignment June 20.
“Our scouts have seen a plus breaking ball from him and a plus third pitch at times,” Huntington said. “His struggle has obviously been consistency of strikes.”
In his five-year major league career, Bautista has also pitched for Baltimore, Kansas City and Colorado. He has a 4-11 record with a 6.42 ERA in 51 games, 21 starts and 30 in relief.
To make room on the 40-man roster for Bautista, the Pirates unconditionally released outfielder Kevin Thompson, who was with Class AAA Indianapolis and underwent successful surgery on his left hand Tuesday.
Two candidates from Indianapolis to possibly start Friday are Jason Davis, who is 4-7 with a 4.57 ERA in 15 starts, and Jimmy Barthmaier, who is 2-1 with a 2.86 ERA in five starts. Barthmaier has also struck out 29 in 31 innings against six walks.
Two possibilities for Saturday are Ty Taubenheim, who is 4-9 with a 4.60 ERA at Indianapolis, and John Van Benschoten, who is 7-2 with a 3.75 ERA but has a tender shoulder and a blister.
Bautista, who is scheduled to arrive Thursday, has made 21 career starts but will start out pitching in middle relief according to Pirates general manager Neal Huntington.
“He’s a nice addition,” Huntington said. “He’s an upgrade over what we currently have.”
When Bautista arrives, the Pirates will need to make a corresponding move on the 25-man roster in order to fill Friday’s pitching vacancy, though Huntington said that likely won’t occur until after Thursday’s game. The same goes for Saturday’s starting pitcher, which will be likely be announced after Friday’s game.
Bautista, 27, began this season with Detroit and was 0-1 with a 3.32 ERA in 16 games (19 innings pitched). Bautista struck out 10 and walked 14 before being designated for assignment June 20.
“Our scouts have seen a plus breaking ball from him and a plus third pitch at times,” Huntington said. “His struggle has obviously been consistency of strikes.”
In his five-year major league career, Bautista has also pitched for Baltimore, Kansas City and Colorado. He has a 4-11 record with a 6.42 ERA in 51 games, 21 starts and 30 in relief.
To make room on the 40-man roster for Bautista, the Pirates unconditionally released outfielder Kevin Thompson, who was with Class AAA Indianapolis and underwent successful surgery on his left hand Tuesday.
Two candidates from Indianapolis to possibly start Friday are Jason Davis, who is 4-7 with a 4.57 ERA in 15 starts, and Jimmy Barthmaier, who is 2-1 with a 2.86 ERA in five starts. Barthmaier has also struck out 29 in 31 innings against six walks.
Two possibilities for Saturday are Ty Taubenheim, who is 4-9 with a 4.60 ERA at Indianapolis, and John Van Benschoten, who is 7-2 with a 3.75 ERA but has a tender shoulder and a blister.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Pirates-Yankees Game 1 leftovers
* Tuesday's game marked the seventh time this season the Pirates have scored 10 or more runs in a game. They are 7-0 in those games.
* Pittsburgh's 19 hits tied a season high, matched May 31 against St. Louis.
* Tom Gorzelanny has walked four or more batters in nine of his 15 starts, including five Tuesday.
* The Pirates were 6-for-12 with runners in scoring position.
* Adam LaRoche hit his third career triple. it was his first since August 30, 2006 when he was with Atlanta.
* Pirates manager John Russell on catcher Ryan Doumit, who had three hits including a home run and two RBI: "We've said it all year that he's such a big part of our lineup. He really solidifies out four-hole and he really balances out our lineup. He a threat at the plate. It's nice for our team when Ryan's in there."
* Gorzelanny on the atmosphere: "It was something. It's definitely different than what we're used to here. That's what the Yankees bring when they go on the road. It was great. The fans were great. They were very energetic."
* Doumit on the atmosphere: "It was playoff-ish. It was certainly something I could get used to."
* Pittsburgh's 19 hits tied a season high, matched May 31 against St. Louis.
* Tom Gorzelanny has walked four or more batters in nine of his 15 starts, including five Tuesday.
* The Pirates were 6-for-12 with runners in scoring position.
* Adam LaRoche hit his third career triple. it was his first since August 30, 2006 when he was with Atlanta.
* Pirates manager John Russell on catcher Ryan Doumit, who had three hits including a home run and two RBI: "We've said it all year that he's such a big part of our lineup. He really solidifies out four-hole and he really balances out our lineup. He a threat at the plate. It's nice for our team when Ryan's in there."
* Gorzelanny on the atmosphere: "It was something. It's definitely different than what we're used to here. That's what the Yankees bring when they go on the road. It was great. The fans were great. They were very energetic."
* Doumit on the atmosphere: "It was playoff-ish. It was certainly something I could get used to."
Pirates-Yankees: Here's what to look for
In case you haven't heard, the Yankees are playing in Pittsburgh for the first time sonce some guy named Mazeroski hit a home run back in 1960.
Again, with little recent history between the two teams, here are some notes and things to keep an eye on during the series.
* Pitching matchups: Tuesday – Tom Gorzelanny (5-6, 6.59 ERA) Pittsburgh vs. Darrell Rasner (4-4, 3.64 ERA) New York; Wednesday – Zach Duke (4-4, 3.91 ERA) Pittsburgh vs. Joba Chamberlain (1-2, 2.36 ERA) New York; Thursday – Paul Maholm (5-5, 4.41 ERA) Pittsburgh vs. Mike Mussina (10-5, 3.93 ERA) New York.
* Duke has never faced the Yankees. Maholm lost his only start in New York in 2007 while Gorzelanny had a no-decision. Gorzelanny was in line for the win after allowing 4 runs in 6 1/3 innings but got a no-decision in a 5-4 Pittsburgh loss in 10 innings.
* Bobby Abreu is 3-for-7 in his career of both Duke and Maholm.
* Chris gomez and Doug Mientkiewicz are a combined 12-for-50 off Mussina. Gomez is 8-for-32 and Mientkiewicz is 4-for-18. … Jaosn bay is 2-for-4.
* From the My, how things have changed department, courtesy of the Pirates public relations staff, a look at how prices have changed since the Yankees last played in Pittsburgh.
(1960 price, 2008 price):
Stamp: (4 cents, 42 cents); Dozen eggs (57 cents, $1.85); Gallon of gas (31 cents, $4.07); Average cost of a new home ($16,500, $318,000); Gallon of milk (49 cents, $3.69); Salary of a rookie player ($7,000, $390,000).
Again, with little recent history between the two teams, here are some notes and things to keep an eye on during the series.
* Pitching matchups: Tuesday – Tom Gorzelanny (5-6, 6.59 ERA) Pittsburgh vs. Darrell Rasner (4-4, 3.64 ERA) New York; Wednesday – Zach Duke (4-4, 3.91 ERA) Pittsburgh vs. Joba Chamberlain (1-2, 2.36 ERA) New York; Thursday – Paul Maholm (5-5, 4.41 ERA) Pittsburgh vs. Mike Mussina (10-5, 3.93 ERA) New York.
* Duke has never faced the Yankees. Maholm lost his only start in New York in 2007 while Gorzelanny had a no-decision. Gorzelanny was in line for the win after allowing 4 runs in 6 1/3 innings but got a no-decision in a 5-4 Pittsburgh loss in 10 innings.
* Bobby Abreu is 3-for-7 in his career of both Duke and Maholm.
* Chris gomez and Doug Mientkiewicz are a combined 12-for-50 off Mussina. Gomez is 8-for-32 and Mientkiewicz is 4-for-18. … Jaosn bay is 2-for-4.
* From the My, how things have changed department, courtesy of the Pirates public relations staff, a look at how prices have changed since the Yankees last played in Pittsburgh.
(1960 price, 2008 price):
Stamp: (4 cents, 42 cents); Dozen eggs (57 cents, $1.85); Gallon of gas (31 cents, $4.07); Average cost of a new home ($16,500, $318,000); Gallon of milk (49 cents, $3.69); Salary of a rookie player ($7,000, $390,000).
Monday, June 23, 2008
Good news for Snell, Dumatrait
Pirates pitchers Phil Dumatrait and Ian Snell each had medical procedures performed today and both came out with positive results.
Dumatrait had an MRI performed by team doctor Dr. Patrick DeMeo and the and the test revealed bursitis in his left shoulder.
Dumatrait had an MRI performed by team doctor Dr. Patrick DeMeo and the and the test revealed bursitis in his left shoulder.
With rest, the Pirates feel that Dumatrait should be able to come off the disabled list as scheduled on July 5.
Snell had an MRA performed today at Allegheny General Hospital and the tests revealed medial epicondylitis and no damage to the ulnar collateral ligament.
It very possible, almost likely, that Snell will miss his next scheduled start Friday at home against Tampa Bay. He is listed as day to day. The Pirates are hopeful that Snell will not need to go on the disabled list.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Pirates-Blue Jays: Here's what to look for
We're going to take a bit of a different turn with this series' "Here's what to look for." With very little recent history between the two clubs, the usual batter vs. pitcher matchups are pretty useless. So here are some random notes for the series:
Pitching matchups: Friday – Zach Duke (Pittsburgh) vs. Roy Halladay (Toronto); Saturday: Paul Maholm (Pittsburgh) vs. Jesse Litsch (Toronto); Sunday: Ian Snell (Pittsburgh) vs. Dustin McGowan (Toronto).
One thing to look for is how Toronto plays under new manager Cito Gaston, who was hired Friday afternoon to replace the fired John Gibbons. Gaston is the most successful manager in Blue Jays' history, leading the team to consecutive World series titles in 1992 and '93.
He is also the fourth-oldest manager in baseball history and it will be interesting to see how the younger players react to Gaston and his style.
This is Toronto's first visit to PNC Park.
The Pirates enter the game with the major's worst interleague record in history – 58-99. Pittsburgh, which begins a nine-game homestand Friday, is 37-40 at home in interleague compared to 21-59 on the road.
Pitching matchups: Friday – Zach Duke (Pittsburgh) vs. Roy Halladay (Toronto); Saturday: Paul Maholm (Pittsburgh) vs. Jesse Litsch (Toronto); Sunday: Ian Snell (Pittsburgh) vs. Dustin McGowan (Toronto).
One thing to look for is how Toronto plays under new manager Cito Gaston, who was hired Friday afternoon to replace the fired John Gibbons. Gaston is the most successful manager in Blue Jays' history, leading the team to consecutive World series titles in 1992 and '93.
He is also the fourth-oldest manager in baseball history and it will be interesting to see how the younger players react to Gaston and his style.
This is Toronto's first visit to PNC Park.
The Pirates enter the game with the major's worst interleague record in history – 58-99. Pittsburgh, which begins a nine-game homestand Friday, is 37-40 at home in interleague compared to 21-59 on the road.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Mr. Alvarez, you're up
Now that Tim Beckham, the high school shortstop and No. 1 pick in this year's draft signed with Tampa Bay, the focus now turns to the Pirates and Pedro Alvarez, the No. 2 pick.
Beckham signed Thursday for a $6.15 million signing bonus. It was less than the deal Tampa's No. 1 pick of last year – pitcher David Price – got, but a little more than Beckham was projected to receive.
Part of the reason Beckham signed so fast was so that he could start playing immediately. His career will start at Hunnicutt Field in Princeton, W.Va., home of the Princeton Rays, Tampa's Appalachian League Rookie-level team.
Now the Pirates are up and it will be very interesting to see how Beckham's signing impacts Alvarez. It has been made clear that Alvarez and his agent, Scott Boras, want upwards of $7 million in a signing bonus, which would be a record.
The problem for the Pirates is this: Do they stick to their guns and hold their offer to less than what Beckham received, simply because he was drafted ahead of Alvarez? Or, do they pay above slot, and above the system team president Frank Coonelly put in place when he was with Major League Baseball? And if they do, how will that be looked at by the commissioner's office?
The deadline for Alvarez to sign is Aug. 15.
Beckham signed Thursday for a $6.15 million signing bonus. It was less than the deal Tampa's No. 1 pick of last year – pitcher David Price – got, but a little more than Beckham was projected to receive.
Part of the reason Beckham signed so fast was so that he could start playing immediately. His career will start at Hunnicutt Field in Princeton, W.Va., home of the Princeton Rays, Tampa's Appalachian League Rookie-level team.
Now the Pirates are up and it will be very interesting to see how Beckham's signing impacts Alvarez. It has been made clear that Alvarez and his agent, Scott Boras, want upwards of $7 million in a signing bonus, which would be a record.
The problem for the Pirates is this: Do they stick to their guns and hold their offer to less than what Beckham received, simply because he was drafted ahead of Alvarez? Or, do they pay above slot, and above the system team president Frank Coonelly put in place when he was with Major League Baseball? And if they do, how will that be looked at by the commissioner's office?
The deadline for Alvarez to sign is Aug. 15.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Pirates-White Sox: Here's what to look for
Here are some trends to keep an eye on this week during the Pirates series in Chicago against the White Sox (Hint: With Xavier Nady hurt, it might be Jason Michaels time to shine):
Tuesday: Ian Snell (Pittsburgh) vs. Javier Vazquez (Chicago)
Snell won for the first time since April 12 in his last start. … It was his best start of the season. … Vazquez is 4-3 with a 4.76 ERA vs. the Pirates. … Vazquez has lost two straight starts. Michaels is 5-for-15 with a home run and three RBI vs. Vazquez.
Wednesday: Tom Gorzelanny (Pittsburgh) vs. Mark Buehrle (Chicago)
Gorzelanny won his last start to even his record to 5-5. … This will be Gorzelanny's first start vs. the White Sox. … The White Sox are 5-9 when Buehrle starts despite nine quality starts by Buehrle, who has a 2-0 record and 1.80 ERA vs. the Pirates. … Michaels is 10-for-29 with two home runs and four RBI vs. Buehrle while Mientkiewicz has eight RBI.
Thursday: Phil Dumatrait (Pittsburgh) vs. Gavin Floyd (Chicago)
Dumatrait blew a 6-1 lead in his last, one in which he allowed five runs, five hits and five walks in five innings. … Floyd won his only start against the Pirates in 2006 as a member of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Tuesday: Ian Snell (Pittsburgh) vs. Javier Vazquez (Chicago)
Snell won for the first time since April 12 in his last start. … It was his best start of the season. … Vazquez is 4-3 with a 4.76 ERA vs. the Pirates. … Vazquez has lost two straight starts. Michaels is 5-for-15 with a home run and three RBI vs. Vazquez.
Wednesday: Tom Gorzelanny (Pittsburgh) vs. Mark Buehrle (Chicago)
Gorzelanny won his last start to even his record to 5-5. … This will be Gorzelanny's first start vs. the White Sox. … The White Sox are 5-9 when Buehrle starts despite nine quality starts by Buehrle, who has a 2-0 record and 1.80 ERA vs. the Pirates. … Michaels is 10-for-29 with two home runs and four RBI vs. Buehrle while Mientkiewicz has eight RBI.
Thursday: Phil Dumatrait (Pittsburgh) vs. Gavin Floyd (Chicago)
Dumatrait blew a 6-1 lead in his last, one in which he allowed five runs, five hits and five walks in five innings. … Floyd won his only start against the Pirates in 2006 as a member of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Minor move
The Pirate sent down pitcher Bryan Bullington after Thursday's game and recalled Marino Salas from Class AAA Indianapolis.
Bullington, the No. 1 pick of the 2002 draft, was with the Pirates since May 29 but did not pitch.
Salas, acquired from Milwaukee in the Salomon Torres trade, made his major-league debut May 13 and earned his first big-league win. He was sent down May 29 when Bullington was recalled. Salas was 2-0 with a 2.93 with the Indians.
Bullington, the No. 1 pick of the 2002 draft, was with the Pirates since May 29 but did not pitch.
Salas, acquired from Milwaukee in the Salomon Torres trade, made his major-league debut May 13 and earned his first big-league win. He was sent down May 29 when Bullington was recalled. Salas was 2-0 with a 2.93 with the Indians.
Pirates-Orioles: Here's what to look for
We're going to take a bit of a different turn with this series' "Here's what to look for." With very little recent history between the two clubs, the usual batter vs. pitcher matchups are pretty useless. So here are some random notes for the series:
Pitcher matchups: Friday – Phil Dumatrait (Pittsburgh) vs. Brian Burres (Baltimore); Saturday – Zach Duke (Pittsburgh) vs. Radhames Liz (Baltimore); Sunday – Paul Maholm (Pittsburgh) vs. Daniel Cabrera (Baltimore).
If the Pirates win Friday or take at least two of three games in the series, it will be the latest in a season they will have reached the .500 mark since Sept. 1, 1999 when they were 67-67. Pittsburgh went 11-16 the rest of the way and finished with a 78-83 record.
Friday's first pitch would have marked the first time the Pirates played in a meaningful game in Baltimore since Pat Kelly flew out to Pittsburgh's Omar Moreno on Oct. 17, 1979 to win the 1979 World Series.
Pittsburgh has a major-league worst 57-94 record entering interleague play. The Pirates are also 20-54 on the road in interleague play and were 5-10 last year.
Pitcher matchups: Friday – Phil Dumatrait (Pittsburgh) vs. Brian Burres (Baltimore); Saturday – Zach Duke (Pittsburgh) vs. Radhames Liz (Baltimore); Sunday – Paul Maholm (Pittsburgh) vs. Daniel Cabrera (Baltimore).
If the Pirates win Friday or take at least two of three games in the series, it will be the latest in a season they will have reached the .500 mark since Sept. 1, 1999 when they were 67-67. Pittsburgh went 11-16 the rest of the way and finished with a 78-83 record.
Friday's first pitch would have marked the first time the Pirates played in a meaningful game in Baltimore since Pat Kelly flew out to Pittsburgh's Omar Moreno on Oct. 17, 1979 to win the 1979 World Series.
Pittsburgh has a major-league worst 57-94 record entering interleague play. The Pirates are also 20-54 on the road in interleague play and were 5-10 last year.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
What to do with LaRoche?
Adam LaRoche certainly has had his share of low points during his 1 1/2 years with the Pirates.
Wednesday, he might have hit rock bottom.
LaRoche left seven runners on base – SEVEN – in Wednesday's game. He leads the majors in strikeouts with runners in scoring position (26) and has only 18 RBI in 68 at bats with runners in scoring position.
Earlier in the homestand, a dejected LaRoche said he wasn't going to change his approach because he felt like he was getting good at bats and good swing, but the balls he hit were right at people.
There's already been a call to trade LaRoche, which is understandable but impractical because it would be the ultimate example of selling low.
Now benching him, for a considerable amount of time, that seems conceivable.
The Pirates have a capable replacement in Doug Mientkiewicz who could easily fill LaRoche's spot. He's just as good defensively as LaRoche – Mientkiewicz is a former Gold Glove winner. And while he doesn't have LaRoche's power (though we rarely get to see any examples of that anyway), Mientkiewicz is having a better year at the plate and is a more consistent hitter.
Mientkiewicz should see a lot of playing time over the next two weeks because of his familiarity with the American League (the Pirates play 15 straight interleague games). He, not LaRoche, deserves the bulk of the playing time and, if he performs, should continue to play first when the Pirates get back to their National League schedule as well.
Wednesday, he might have hit rock bottom.
LaRoche left seven runners on base – SEVEN – in Wednesday's game. He leads the majors in strikeouts with runners in scoring position (26) and has only 18 RBI in 68 at bats with runners in scoring position.
Earlier in the homestand, a dejected LaRoche said he wasn't going to change his approach because he felt like he was getting good at bats and good swing, but the balls he hit were right at people.
There's already been a call to trade LaRoche, which is understandable but impractical because it would be the ultimate example of selling low.
Now benching him, for a considerable amount of time, that seems conceivable.
The Pirates have a capable replacement in Doug Mientkiewicz who could easily fill LaRoche's spot. He's just as good defensively as LaRoche – Mientkiewicz is a former Gold Glove winner. And while he doesn't have LaRoche's power (though we rarely get to see any examples of that anyway), Mientkiewicz is having a better year at the plate and is a more consistent hitter.
Mientkiewicz should see a lot of playing time over the next two weeks because of his familiarity with the American League (the Pirates play 15 straight interleague games). He, not LaRoche, deserves the bulk of the playing time and, if he performs, should continue to play first when the Pirates get back to their National League schedule as well.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
He never complained
It's easy to complain and moan about things in our daily lives. We all do it. We all shouldn't do it, but we do, it's human nature I guess.
I thought that until I met and got to know Jimmy Montecalvo, who passed away Saturday after a long illness. See, the more I thought about Jimmy, and I have a lot recently especially over the past couple of weeks, the more I thought "Wow, he never complained – about anything!"
And the thing is, if anyone had a right to complain about something it would be Jimmy. Face it, God didn't deal Jimmy a great hand. But Jimmy, an avid golfer, played life where it lied and made the most of everything.
If you only met Jim briefly and didn't know any better, you never would have known he was sick, especially because he always had a smile on his face. Heck, I worked with the guy for almost four years and half the time I forgot how sick he really was because you would never know it by how he acted, what he said and the way he carried himself.
For all of his treatments, shots, surgeries, hospital and doctor visits, Jimmy never complained one time – ever – about how he was feeling.
The next time you go to work, or school or are in a social setting, look around you and take notice of the people who complain about every little thing in their lives, or maybe you are one of those people.
Once you do, think about Jimmy and maybe pass on his story to that person. Then, the next time, maybe they or you, won't complain about life's little things so much and instead you can come to appreciate them.
I know that is the one thing I took away from knowing Jimmy, and it's something that will stay with me for a lifetime.
We'll miss you, Jimmy. God bless you and your family.
I thought that until I met and got to know Jimmy Montecalvo, who passed away Saturday after a long illness. See, the more I thought about Jimmy, and I have a lot recently especially over the past couple of weeks, the more I thought "Wow, he never complained – about anything!"
And the thing is, if anyone had a right to complain about something it would be Jimmy. Face it, God didn't deal Jimmy a great hand. But Jimmy, an avid golfer, played life where it lied and made the most of everything.
If you only met Jim briefly and didn't know any better, you never would have known he was sick, especially because he always had a smile on his face. Heck, I worked with the guy for almost four years and half the time I forgot how sick he really was because you would never know it by how he acted, what he said and the way he carried himself.
For all of his treatments, shots, surgeries, hospital and doctor visits, Jimmy never complained one time – ever – about how he was feeling.
The next time you go to work, or school or are in a social setting, look around you and take notice of the people who complain about every little thing in their lives, or maybe you are one of those people.
Once you do, think about Jimmy and maybe pass on his story to that person. Then, the next time, maybe they or you, won't complain about life's little things so much and instead you can come to appreciate them.
I know that is the one thing I took away from knowing Jimmy, and it's something that will stay with me for a lifetime.
We'll miss you, Jimmy. God bless you and your family.
Pirates-Nationals: Here's what to look for
Here are some trends to keep an eye on this week during the Pirates series at home against Washington (Hint: Can the Pirates get over .500 against the last-place Nationals?):
Tuesday: Paul Maholm (Pittsburgh) vs. Tim Redding (Washington:
Maholm had a shaky beginning to his last start but pitched six scoreless innings to finish it and earn his fourth win. … Washington's Lastings Milledge is batting .333 with a home run and two RBI off Maholm. … Redding was roughed up in his last start, allowing six runs in 5 1/3 innings. … Jack Wilson is batting .333 with three RBI off Redding and Adam LaRoche has a solo home run off him in his career.
Wednesday: Ian Snell (Pittsburgh) vs. John Lannan (Washington)
Can Snell finally get that first elusive win since April 12? He thought he did pretty good in his last start when he struck out nine, though he threw 107 pitches in five innings. … It will also be interesting to see if Snell is recovered from getting hit on the back by a line drive in his last start. … Willie Harris is 4-for-8 with three doubles and Milledge is 4-for-7 lifetime off Snell. … Lannan dropped his ERA to 3.47 after allowing two runs in six innings in his last start. … Jose Bautista has a three-run homer off Lannan in his career.
Thursday: Tom Gorzelanny (Pittsburgh) vs. Jason Bergmann (Washington)
Like Maholm, Gorzelanny had a rough beginning in his last start, allowing three runs in the first. He, too, threw six shutout innings to end the start. … Milledge is 2-for-2 with a double off Gorzelanny. … Bergmann gave up eight runs and 10 hits in three innings in his last start. … LaRoche has four RBI in eight at bats off Bergmann while Freddy Sanchez and Jack Wilson have two RBI each against Bergmann.
Tuesday: Paul Maholm (Pittsburgh) vs. Tim Redding (Washington:
Maholm had a shaky beginning to his last start but pitched six scoreless innings to finish it and earn his fourth win. … Washington's Lastings Milledge is batting .333 with a home run and two RBI off Maholm. … Redding was roughed up in his last start, allowing six runs in 5 1/3 innings. … Jack Wilson is batting .333 with three RBI off Redding and Adam LaRoche has a solo home run off him in his career.
Wednesday: Ian Snell (Pittsburgh) vs. John Lannan (Washington)
Can Snell finally get that first elusive win since April 12? He thought he did pretty good in his last start when he struck out nine, though he threw 107 pitches in five innings. … It will also be interesting to see if Snell is recovered from getting hit on the back by a line drive in his last start. … Willie Harris is 4-for-8 with three doubles and Milledge is 4-for-7 lifetime off Snell. … Lannan dropped his ERA to 3.47 after allowing two runs in six innings in his last start. … Jose Bautista has a three-run homer off Lannan in his career.
Thursday: Tom Gorzelanny (Pittsburgh) vs. Jason Bergmann (Washington)
Like Maholm, Gorzelanny had a rough beginning in his last start, allowing three runs in the first. He, too, threw six shutout innings to end the start. … Milledge is 2-for-2 with a double off Gorzelanny. … Bergmann gave up eight runs and 10 hits in three innings in his last start. … LaRoche has four RBI in eight at bats off Bergmann while Freddy Sanchez and Jack Wilson have two RBI each against Bergmann.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Pirates draft recap
Here is the list of all 50 draft picks selected by the Pirates
Pirates 2008 draft list
Round Player Pos. Ht. Wt. School
1 Pedro Alvarez 3B 6-2 212 Vanderbilt
NOTE: Show him the money.
2 Tanner Scheppers RHP 6-4 195 Fresno State
NOTE: That's right, you bet they'd take a Tanner.
3 Jordy Mercer SS 6-3 190 Oklahoma State
4 Chase d’Arnaud 3B 6-2 200 Pepperdine
5 Justin Wilson LHP 6-2 210 Fresno State
NOTE: Two-fifths of the way to drafting the school's entire rotation.
6 Robert Grossman OF 6-0 200 Cypress-Fairbanks H.S. (Tx.)
7 Benjamin Gonzalez SS 5-11 160 Puerto Rico BB Academy H.S.
8 Jeremy Farrell 3B 6-3 200 Virginia
9 Matthew Hague 3B 6-3 225 Oklahoma State
10 Andrew Gagnon RHP 6-3 180 Liberty Union H.S. (Calif.)
11 David Rubinstein CF 6-2 190 Appalachian State
12 Calvin Anderson 1B 6-7 240 Southern
13 Robert Gardner RF 6-3 185 Highland Park H.S. (Tx.)
14 Michael Colla RHP 6-2 220 Arizona
15 Christopher Aure LHP 6-0 180 North Pole H.S. (Alaska)
NOTE: I wonder if Aure knows Santa Claus?
16 Wesley Freeman CF 6-4 215 All Saint Academy (Fla.)
17 Jaron Shepherd CF 6-1 175 Navarro College (Tx.)
18 Jarek Cunningham SS 6-1 185 Mt. Spokane H.S. (Wash.)
19 Jason Haniger C 6-2 215 Georgia Tech
NOTE: No, Pittsburgh was supposed to take the catcher from Georgia Tech last year.
20 Robert Miller RHP 6-1 185 Shawnee H.S. (N.J.)
21 Brent Klinger RHP 6-4 185 Glendale C.C. (Ariz.)
22 Patrick Palmiero 3B 6-3 210 Heritage H.S. (Tx.)
NOTE: Son of former major leaguer Rafael Palmiero
23 Austtin Wright LHP 6-3 220 James B. Conant H.S. (Ill.)
24 Brian Litwin 3B 6-3 195 St. Stephens H.S. (N.C.)
25 Brian Leach RHP 6-3 195 Southern Mississippi
26 Zachary Wilson 3B 6-1 190 Woodrow Wilson H.S. (Calif.)
27 Edwin Roman CF 5-10 160 Puerto Rico BB Academy H.S.
28 Kyle Saukko RHP 5-11 175 Sierra Junior College (Calif.)
29 Kevin Komstadius 1B 6-4 205 East Valley H.S. (Wash.)
30 Daniel Martin RHP 6-9 265 Panola Junior College (Tx.)
NOTE: Wow, I guess they do grow 'em big in Texas
31 Ryan Hinson LHP 6-3 220 Clemson
32 Anthony Forrest RHP 6-0 175 Bossier Parrish C.C. (La.)
33 Mark Carver C 6-2 195 UNC-Wilmington
34 Matthew Payne 3B 6-1 200 North Carolina State
35 Tyler Cox LHP 6-3 200 Illinois State
36 Kyle Morgan OF 6-1 220 San Francisco
37 Matthew Curry 1B 6-2 235 Howard
38 Alan Knotts RHP 6-4 210 Louisiana Tech
39 Albert Fagan RHP 6-4 205 No school (From New York)
NOTE: Interesting to get a guy from parts unknown
40 Beau Didier 3B 6-2 Bellarmine Prep
41 Chris Simmons C 5-11 205 U.S. Military Academy
42 Cole White OF 6-2 200 U.S. Military Academy
NOTE: Nice to see the Pirates supporting the military with consecutive picks
43 Johnny Gunter RHP 6-3 230 Chattahoochee Valley C.C.
44 Mike Williams LHP 6-5 235 Mt. Olive College (S.C.)
NOTE: Better hope this Mike Williams is better than the former Pirates' closer
45 Allen Ponder RHP 6-4 230 Auburn-Montgomery
NOTE: I wonder how long it took to Ponder this selection?
46 Scott McGough SS 6-0 150 Plum
NOTE: Only local player drafted by the Pirates.
47 Jordan Craft OF 6-1 182 Kennesaw Mountain H.S.
48 Owen Brolsma RHP 6-1 210 Texas Tech
49 Zachary Foster RHP 6-4 220 Pitt-Bradford
NOTE: Finally, a player taken from that baseball factory Pitt-Bradford.
50 Craig Parry LF 6-1 195 South Dakota State
NOTE: Mr. Irrelevant.
Pirates 2008 draft list
Round Player Pos. Ht. Wt. School
1 Pedro Alvarez 3B 6-2 212 Vanderbilt
NOTE: Show him the money.
2 Tanner Scheppers RHP 6-4 195 Fresno State
NOTE: That's right, you bet they'd take a Tanner.
3 Jordy Mercer SS 6-3 190 Oklahoma State
4 Chase d’Arnaud 3B 6-2 200 Pepperdine
5 Justin Wilson LHP 6-2 210 Fresno State
NOTE: Two-fifths of the way to drafting the school's entire rotation.
6 Robert Grossman OF 6-0 200 Cypress-Fairbanks H.S. (Tx.)
7 Benjamin Gonzalez SS 5-11 160 Puerto Rico BB Academy H.S.
8 Jeremy Farrell 3B 6-3 200 Virginia
9 Matthew Hague 3B 6-3 225 Oklahoma State
10 Andrew Gagnon RHP 6-3 180 Liberty Union H.S. (Calif.)
11 David Rubinstein CF 6-2 190 Appalachian State
12 Calvin Anderson 1B 6-7 240 Southern
13 Robert Gardner RF 6-3 185 Highland Park H.S. (Tx.)
14 Michael Colla RHP 6-2 220 Arizona
15 Christopher Aure LHP 6-0 180 North Pole H.S. (Alaska)
NOTE: I wonder if Aure knows Santa Claus?
16 Wesley Freeman CF 6-4 215 All Saint Academy (Fla.)
17 Jaron Shepherd CF 6-1 175 Navarro College (Tx.)
18 Jarek Cunningham SS 6-1 185 Mt. Spokane H.S. (Wash.)
19 Jason Haniger C 6-2 215 Georgia Tech
NOTE: No, Pittsburgh was supposed to take the catcher from Georgia Tech last year.
20 Robert Miller RHP 6-1 185 Shawnee H.S. (N.J.)
21 Brent Klinger RHP 6-4 185 Glendale C.C. (Ariz.)
22 Patrick Palmiero 3B 6-3 210 Heritage H.S. (Tx.)
NOTE: Son of former major leaguer Rafael Palmiero
23 Austtin Wright LHP 6-3 220 James B. Conant H.S. (Ill.)
24 Brian Litwin 3B 6-3 195 St. Stephens H.S. (N.C.)
25 Brian Leach RHP 6-3 195 Southern Mississippi
26 Zachary Wilson 3B 6-1 190 Woodrow Wilson H.S. (Calif.)
27 Edwin Roman CF 5-10 160 Puerto Rico BB Academy H.S.
28 Kyle Saukko RHP 5-11 175 Sierra Junior College (Calif.)
29 Kevin Komstadius 1B 6-4 205 East Valley H.S. (Wash.)
30 Daniel Martin RHP 6-9 265 Panola Junior College (Tx.)
NOTE: Wow, I guess they do grow 'em big in Texas
31 Ryan Hinson LHP 6-3 220 Clemson
32 Anthony Forrest RHP 6-0 175 Bossier Parrish C.C. (La.)
33 Mark Carver C 6-2 195 UNC-Wilmington
34 Matthew Payne 3B 6-1 200 North Carolina State
35 Tyler Cox LHP 6-3 200 Illinois State
36 Kyle Morgan OF 6-1 220 San Francisco
37 Matthew Curry 1B 6-2 235 Howard
38 Alan Knotts RHP 6-4 210 Louisiana Tech
39 Albert Fagan RHP 6-4 205 No school (From New York)
NOTE: Interesting to get a guy from parts unknown
40 Beau Didier 3B 6-2 Bellarmine Prep
41 Chris Simmons C 5-11 205 U.S. Military Academy
42 Cole White OF 6-2 200 U.S. Military Academy
NOTE: Nice to see the Pirates supporting the military with consecutive picks
43 Johnny Gunter RHP 6-3 230 Chattahoochee Valley C.C.
44 Mike Williams LHP 6-5 235 Mt. Olive College (S.C.)
NOTE: Better hope this Mike Williams is better than the former Pirates' closer
45 Allen Ponder RHP 6-4 230 Auburn-Montgomery
NOTE: I wonder how long it took to Ponder this selection?
46 Scott McGough SS 6-0 150 Plum
NOTE: Only local player drafted by the Pirates.
47 Jordan Craft OF 6-1 182 Kennesaw Mountain H.S.
48 Owen Brolsma RHP 6-1 210 Texas Tech
49 Zachary Foster RHP 6-4 220 Pitt-Bradford
NOTE: Finally, a player taken from that baseball factory Pitt-Bradford.
50 Craig Parry LF 6-1 195 South Dakota State
NOTE: Mr. Irrelevant.
Pirates-Diamondbacks: Here's what to look for
Here are some trends to keep an eye on this week during the Pirates four-game series at home against Arizona (Hint: Could be one of the last chances ever to see future Hall-of-Famer Randy Johnson pitch in person):
Friday: Ian Snell (Pittsburgh) vs. Brandon Webb (Arizona)
In case you haven't read this before, Snell hasn't won since April 12, a span of nine starts. … Arizona's Stephen Drew is 3-for-7 against Snell. … Webb is on a Cy-Young pace with a 10-2 record and 2.65 ERA entering the game. … Jason Bay is 0-for-12 lifetime against Webb while Nate McLouth is 4-for-6. Jose Bautista (3-for-4) and Adam LaRoche (3-for-10, HR, 2 RBI) have also had success vs. Webb.
Saturday: Tom Gorzelanny (Pittsburgh) vs. Dan Haren (Arizona)
Gorzelanny has had an up-and-down season but has won his last two starts at home and has given up only four earned runs in 12 1/3 innings in those starts. … He is 1-0 with a 2.77 ERA in two starts vs. Arizona. … Justin Upton had a double, triple and home run vs. Gorzelanny. … Mark Reynolds is 2-for-6 with a home run and two RBI but has struck out three times. … Doug Mientkiewicz is 4-for-12 with two doubles off Haren, who is 2-0 with a 2,60 ERA in three starts against the Pirates. … Jason Michaels is 4-for-9 lifetime vs. Haren.
Sunday: Phil Dumatrait (Pittsburgh) vs. Doug Davis (Arizona)
Dumatrait is making his first career start against Arizona. … He was a hard-luck loser in his last start when he allowed two runs in six innings but the Pirates were shut out for the first time this season. … Davis is making his fourth start since returning from having a cancerous thyroid gland removed. … In 19 career games, mostly with Milwaukee, Davis is 6-5 with a 4.98 ERA vs. Pittsburgh. … Jack Wilson is 15-for-45 with four doubles and four RBI vs. Davis. Freddy Sanchez is batting .500 (16-for-32) with a home run and three RBI.
Monday: Zach Duke (Pittsburgh) vs. Randy Johnson (Arizona)
Duke has not had much success against Arizona, going 0-1 with a 6.55 ERA in two starts. … Chris Burke is 4-for-13 with two doubles vs. Duke while Chris Snyder is 3-for-5 with three RBI. … The "Big Unit" is making his 15th career start vs. the Pirates and is 9-5 with a 2.21 lifetime ERA vs. Pittsburgh. … He has averaged 7 1/3 innings a start vs. the Pirates. … Xavier Nady is 5-for-16 with a home run and five RBI vs. Johnson while Chris Gomez is 12-for-40 with a home run and five RBI. … Johnson moved past Roger Clemens and into second place on the all-time strikeouts list with 4,680. He has struck out 141 Pirates batters in 101 2/3 innings.
Friday: Ian Snell (Pittsburgh) vs. Brandon Webb (Arizona)
In case you haven't read this before, Snell hasn't won since April 12, a span of nine starts. … Arizona's Stephen Drew is 3-for-7 against Snell. … Webb is on a Cy-Young pace with a 10-2 record and 2.65 ERA entering the game. … Jason Bay is 0-for-12 lifetime against Webb while Nate McLouth is 4-for-6. Jose Bautista (3-for-4) and Adam LaRoche (3-for-10, HR, 2 RBI) have also had success vs. Webb.
Saturday: Tom Gorzelanny (Pittsburgh) vs. Dan Haren (Arizona)
Gorzelanny has had an up-and-down season but has won his last two starts at home and has given up only four earned runs in 12 1/3 innings in those starts. … He is 1-0 with a 2.77 ERA in two starts vs. Arizona. … Justin Upton had a double, triple and home run vs. Gorzelanny. … Mark Reynolds is 2-for-6 with a home run and two RBI but has struck out three times. … Doug Mientkiewicz is 4-for-12 with two doubles off Haren, who is 2-0 with a 2,60 ERA in three starts against the Pirates. … Jason Michaels is 4-for-9 lifetime vs. Haren.
Sunday: Phil Dumatrait (Pittsburgh) vs. Doug Davis (Arizona)
Dumatrait is making his first career start against Arizona. … He was a hard-luck loser in his last start when he allowed two runs in six innings but the Pirates were shut out for the first time this season. … Davis is making his fourth start since returning from having a cancerous thyroid gland removed. … In 19 career games, mostly with Milwaukee, Davis is 6-5 with a 4.98 ERA vs. Pittsburgh. … Jack Wilson is 15-for-45 with four doubles and four RBI vs. Davis. Freddy Sanchez is batting .500 (16-for-32) with a home run and three RBI.
Monday: Zach Duke (Pittsburgh) vs. Randy Johnson (Arizona)
Duke has not had much success against Arizona, going 0-1 with a 6.55 ERA in two starts. … Chris Burke is 4-for-13 with two doubles vs. Duke while Chris Snyder is 3-for-5 with three RBI. … The "Big Unit" is making his 15th career start vs. the Pirates and is 9-5 with a 2.21 lifetime ERA vs. Pittsburgh. … He has averaged 7 1/3 innings a start vs. the Pirates. … Xavier Nady is 5-for-16 with a home run and five RBI vs. Johnson while Chris Gomez is 12-for-40 with a home run and five RBI. … Johnson moved past Roger Clemens and into second place on the all-time strikeouts list with 4,680. He has struck out 141 Pirates batters in 101 2/3 innings.
Jankowski drafted by Astros
Peters Township catcher Jordan Jankowski was drafted Friday in the 34th round of Major League Baseball's amateur draft by the Houston Astros.
Jankowski finished his career with the Indians as one of the top home run hitters in WPIAL history. Besides catcher, Jankowski was also one of PT's top pitchers.
Jankowski has a full baseball scholarship to Miami University of Ohio, so it is unclear if he will sign with the Asttros by the August 15 deadline or go to college. If Jankowski chooses to attend college, he cannot be drafted again until after his junior season.
Jankowski finished his career with the Indians as one of the top home run hitters in WPIAL history. Besides catcher, Jankowski was also one of PT's top pitchers.
Jankowski has a full baseball scholarship to Miami University of Ohio, so it is unclear if he will sign with the Asttros by the August 15 deadline or go to college. If Jankowski chooses to attend college, he cannot be drafted again until after his junior season.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Paulino sent down, Doumit back
With catcher Ryan Doumit deemed ready for action again after a three-game rehabilitation stint in Class AA Altoona, the Pirates activated Doumit and sent struggling catcher Ronny Paulino to Class AAA Indianapolis.
The news didn't come as a surprise to Paulino, who was batting .218 with two home runs and 18 RBI but has started only one of the last seven games behind the plate.
"Those two guys they're going to have here (Doumit and Chavez) they've been doing such a great job. And I don't think it's a surprise because they've been taking care of their opportunity. They've been playing really well and I just have to focus on myself and work hard."
It's a lack of hard work that some have speculated is the reason Paulino is on his way back to Indianapolis in the first place. Listed at 6-2, 240 pounds, the 27-year-old Paulino has always been a defensive liability and after hitting .310 as a rookie in 2006, his offense has slid off considerably as well.
"We put together a detailed package to send down with him as far as defense goes, conditioning, hitting, just to get him back to where he can be to work and be the major-league catcher he can be," Pirates manager John Russell said. "We're definitely not giving up on him. We'd just like to see him play more and get some more reps in.
"Also to put together the plan we put out for him so that he can follow that and improve in a lot of areas he needs to improve in and get himself back here to be a major-league pitcher."
Well, as Russell put it, if Paulino can't play defense, isn't in shape and can't hit, it might be a long, long time before we see Paulino back in a Pirates uniform.
The news didn't come as a surprise to Paulino, who was batting .218 with two home runs and 18 RBI but has started only one of the last seven games behind the plate.
"Those two guys they're going to have here (Doumit and Chavez) they've been doing such a great job. And I don't think it's a surprise because they've been taking care of their opportunity. They've been playing really well and I just have to focus on myself and work hard."
It's a lack of hard work that some have speculated is the reason Paulino is on his way back to Indianapolis in the first place. Listed at 6-2, 240 pounds, the 27-year-old Paulino has always been a defensive liability and after hitting .310 as a rookie in 2006, his offense has slid off considerably as well.
"We put together a detailed package to send down with him as far as defense goes, conditioning, hitting, just to get him back to where he can be to work and be the major-league catcher he can be," Pirates manager John Russell said. "We're definitely not giving up on him. We'd just like to see him play more and get some more reps in.
"Also to put together the plan we put out for him so that he can follow that and improve in a lot of areas he needs to improve in and get himself back here to be a major-league pitcher."
Well, as Russell put it, if Paulino can't play defense, isn't in shape and can't hit, it might be a long, long time before we see Paulino back in a Pirates uniform.
Pirates take first high school player in sixth
For the first time in the 2008 draft, the Pirates selected a high school player by taking Robbie Grossman, an outfielder from Cypress-Fairbanks High School in Texas.
Grossman led his team to the Texas 5-A title in 2007 and led the U.S.National Junior team in hitting with a .450 batting average.
According to Baseball America, which had Grossman ranked 49th overall,, scouts say Grossman's speed has declined slightly from their initial reports. Though he played center field in high school, his average speed and below-average arm make it more likely he’ll play a corner outfield position rather than center, likely left field.
According to MLB.com, Grossman is an extremely hard worker who goes full speed all the time and is “a real grinder." He has a little bit of power but is more of a gap hitter.
Grossman led his team to the Texas 5-A title in 2007 and led the U.S.National Junior team in hitting with a .450 batting average.
According to Baseball America, which had Grossman ranked 49th overall,, scouts say Grossman's speed has declined slightly from their initial reports. Though he played center field in high school, his average speed and below-average arm make it more likely he’ll play a corner outfield position rather than center, likely left field.
According to MLB.com, Grossman is an extremely hard worker who goes full speed all the time and is “a real grinder." He has a little bit of power but is more of a gap hitter.
Back to Fresno State in Round 5
In perhaps an attempt to draft the entire Fresno State pitching rotation, the Pirates took their second Fresno State pitcher – lefty Justin Wilson – in the fifth round.
Wilson is the teammate of Tanner Scheppers, who the Pirates took in the second round.
Wilson is a 6-2, 210-pound left-hander who was 7-4 with a 4.17 ERA in 19 games (15 starts) with the Bulldogs. He struck out 83 and walked 53 in 99 1/3 innings and allowed 99 hits.
Wilson's best season was in 2007 as a sophomore when he was a First Team-All-Western Athletic Conference selection. Wilson was 8-5 with a 3.19 ERA and 105 strikeouts in 101 2/3 innings. He also allowed only three home runs as a sophomore.
Wilson was a dual threat as a freshman as he struck out 34 in 25 innings pitched and also had a .412 batting average (7-for-17) with three doubles and five RBI as a pinch-hitter.
Wilson is the teammate of Tanner Scheppers, who the Pirates took in the second round.
Wilson is a 6-2, 210-pound left-hander who was 7-4 with a 4.17 ERA in 19 games (15 starts) with the Bulldogs. He struck out 83 and walked 53 in 99 1/3 innings and allowed 99 hits.
Wilson's best season was in 2007 as a sophomore when he was a First Team-All-Western Athletic Conference selection. Wilson was 8-5 with a 3.19 ERA and 105 strikeouts in 101 2/3 innings. He also allowed only three home runs as a sophomore.
Wilson was a dual threat as a freshman as he struck out 34 in 25 innings pitched and also had a .412 batting average (7-for-17) with three doubles and five RBI as a pinch-hitter.
Pirates make Waves in fourth round
The Pirates stayed in the infield for their fourth-round pick, selecting Pepperdine third baseman Chase d'Arnaud.
d'Arnaud (6-3, 200) batted .314 this season for the Waves with 11 home runs and 50 RBI. He also had a .547 slugging percentage and an OPS of .962. d'Arnaud also showed good speed by stealing 10 bases in 16 attempts this season.
Defense appears to be d'Arnaud's weak link as he made a team-high 20 errors.
He was named a Freshman All-American by Collegiate Baseball magazine in 2006 after batting .282 with two home runs and 22 RBI. d'Arnaud followed that up by hitting .331 with three home runs and 28 RBI during his sophomore season.
d'Arnaud (6-3, 200) batted .314 this season for the Waves with 11 home runs and 50 RBI. He also had a .547 slugging percentage and an OPS of .962. d'Arnaud also showed good speed by stealing 10 bases in 16 attempts this season.
Defense appears to be d'Arnaud's weak link as he made a team-high 20 errors.
He was named a Freshman All-American by Collegiate Baseball magazine in 2006 after batting .282 with two home runs and 22 RBI. d'Arnaud followed that up by hitting .331 with three home runs and 28 RBI during his sophomore season.
Pirates take shortstop in third round
The Pirates continued with their trend of college juniors by selecting their third straight in this year's draft – Oklahoma State's Jordy Mercer – in the third round.
Mercer, a 6-3, 190-pounder, batted .330 with 14 home runs and 60 RBI this season for the Cowboys, earning his third All-Big 12 selection.
Mercer started all 62 games for Oklahoma State this season and also had a .542 slugging percentage and .915 OPS. He was also a member of the USA Baseball National Team in 2007.
Mercer was rated the 64th-best player by Baseball America and the sixth-best shortstop. He was also a closer at Oklahoma State and had a fastball in the 91-94 mph range. He was also a perfect 5-for-5 stealing bases this season for Oklahoma State.
Mercer, a 6-3, 190-pounder, batted .330 with 14 home runs and 60 RBI this season for the Cowboys, earning his third All-Big 12 selection.
Mercer started all 62 games for Oklahoma State this season and also had a .542 slugging percentage and .915 OPS. He was also a member of the USA Baseball National Team in 2007.
Mercer was rated the 64th-best player by Baseball America and the sixth-best shortstop. He was also a closer at Oklahoma State and had a fastball in the 91-94 mph range. He was also a perfect 5-for-5 stealing bases this season for Oklahoma State.
Pirates finally make next pick
After a long and drawn out first round (thanks ESPN), the baseball draft has finally entered the second round and the picks will start coming fast and furious.
The draft will last until about 9 p.m. this evening, then pick up at 11:30 a.m. Friday until its conclusion. Check back here often as I will be keeping you updated on all of the picks.
With their second pick, the Pirates selected Tanner Scheppers, a 6-4, 195-pound right-handed pitcher out of Fresno State.
Rated as the 10th-best player, and third-best pitcher by Baseball America, Scheppers has a fastball that is consistently 92-96 miles per hour and has touched 99 mph. Scheppers reportedly had a tender elbow at the beginning of May which might have caused him to slip out of the first round. Other reports say Scheppers has a stress fracture in his shoulder.
But other teams checked out Scheppers and cleared him.
In 12 games this season, Scheppers was 8-2 with a 2.93 ERA. He struck out 109 while allowing onlyu 54 hits and 34 walks in 71 innings pitched.
The draft will last until about 9 p.m. this evening, then pick up at 11:30 a.m. Friday until its conclusion. Check back here often as I will be keeping you updated on all of the picks.
With their second pick, the Pirates selected Tanner Scheppers, a 6-4, 195-pound right-handed pitcher out of Fresno State.
Rated as the 10th-best player, and third-best pitcher by Baseball America, Scheppers has a fastball that is consistently 92-96 miles per hour and has touched 99 mph. Scheppers reportedly had a tender elbow at the beginning of May which might have caused him to slip out of the first round. Other reports say Scheppers has a stress fracture in his shoulder.
But other teams checked out Scheppers and cleared him.
In 12 games this season, Scheppers was 8-2 with a 2.93 ERA. He struck out 109 while allowing onlyu 54 hits and 34 walks in 71 innings pitched.
Pirates draft Alvarez
For once, the Pirates took the high-priced prospect.
With the second overall pick in Thursday's Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft, the Pirates selected Vanderbilt third baseman Pedro Alvarez.
Alvarez, 21, is a power-hitting third baseman and has a major-league ready bat according to scouts. The 6-2, 225-pound Alvarez broke the hamate bone in his right hand in the first game this season. He came back and batted .317 with nine home runs, 15 doubles and 30 RBI in 40 games.
"Our scouts have been following Pedro's career at Vanderbilt and on the USA National Team for several years," said Greg Smith, Pittsburgh's director od scouting. "We're extremely pleased to have the oportunity to select Pedro and add him to our organization."
He was Baseball America's Freshman of the Year two years ago after slugging 22 home runs. He followed that up with 18 home runs his sophomore season but was slowed this year by the hand injury, which is completely healed.
Alvarez is represented by super-agent Scott Boras, who will likely demand a signing bonus in excess of $7 million and a major-league contract, meaning the club would have to burn minor-league options if it send Alvarez down.
The Pirates have until Aug. 15 to sign Alvarez or they lose his rights.
Tampa Bay took Tim Beckham, a high school shortstop from Griffin (Ga.), with the first pick. Beckham was also very high on the Pirates' draft board.
With the second overall pick in Thursday's Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft, the Pirates selected Vanderbilt third baseman Pedro Alvarez.
Alvarez, 21, is a power-hitting third baseman and has a major-league ready bat according to scouts. The 6-2, 225-pound Alvarez broke the hamate bone in his right hand in the first game this season. He came back and batted .317 with nine home runs, 15 doubles and 30 RBI in 40 games.
"Our scouts have been following Pedro's career at Vanderbilt and on the USA National Team for several years," said Greg Smith, Pittsburgh's director od scouting. "We're extremely pleased to have the oportunity to select Pedro and add him to our organization."
He was Baseball America's Freshman of the Year two years ago after slugging 22 home runs. He followed that up with 18 home runs his sophomore season but was slowed this year by the hand injury, which is completely healed.
Alvarez is represented by super-agent Scott Boras, who will likely demand a signing bonus in excess of $7 million and a major-league contract, meaning the club would have to burn minor-league options if it send Alvarez down.
The Pirates have until Aug. 15 to sign Alvarez or they lose his rights.
Tampa Bay took Tim Beckham, a high school shortstop from Griffin (Ga.), with the first pick. Beckham was also very high on the Pirates' draft board.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Is this the end for Smoltz?
Though it wasn’t technically a retirement press conference, it sure sounded like one for Atlanta’s John Smoltz on Wednesday.
A press conference was called to announce that the 41-year-old Smoltz would have season-ending shoulder surgery. But reading some of the quotes, all taken from the Associated Press story, it sounded more like Smoltz and the Braves are preparing for the end of a brilliant career.
“This is a sad day for us in many ways,” Braves general manager Frank Wren said. “We don’t know the outcome of the surgery, whether it will allow him to come back and pitch, or just allow him to go on with his life.”
“I’ve pulled off a lot of miracles,” Smoltz said. “I probably shouldn’t have played this long. I’m looking forward to seeing if I can extend it.”
Smoltz is the only pitcher in baseball history with at least 200 wins and 150 saves. He was a dominant starting pitcher during the Braves reign over the National League in the 1990’s until surgery turned him into a closer in 2000. All Smoltz did was set a National League record for saves with 55 in 2002 and compile 154 total.
Eventually, Smoltz came back as a starter and reached another milestone earlier this season when he surpassed 3,000 strikeouts.
This surgery isn’t necessarily about baseball so much as it is about the rest of Smoltz’s life. Smoltz said everyday activities such as playing with his children or doing things around the house have been difficult since his shoulder pain intensified.
“We’re talking about enjoying life a little bit more than I’ve been able to enjoy it,” he said. “It’s very difficult. A shoulder is like a lower back problem; it puts you in a pretty bad mood. You use your shoulder for everything.”
Regardless of whether you like the Braves or not – and most Pittsburgh fans do not because of the playoff losses in 1991 and 1992, you have to respect Smoltz as a pitcher. The guy is a first ballot Hall of Famer and it would be a shame if he can’t go out on his own terms. Even if he can’t return, he has nothing to be sad about and should be proud of a wonderful career.
A press conference was called to announce that the 41-year-old Smoltz would have season-ending shoulder surgery. But reading some of the quotes, all taken from the Associated Press story, it sounded more like Smoltz and the Braves are preparing for the end of a brilliant career.
“This is a sad day for us in many ways,” Braves general manager Frank Wren said. “We don’t know the outcome of the surgery, whether it will allow him to come back and pitch, or just allow him to go on with his life.”
“I’ve pulled off a lot of miracles,” Smoltz said. “I probably shouldn’t have played this long. I’m looking forward to seeing if I can extend it.”
Smoltz is the only pitcher in baseball history with at least 200 wins and 150 saves. He was a dominant starting pitcher during the Braves reign over the National League in the 1990’s until surgery turned him into a closer in 2000. All Smoltz did was set a National League record for saves with 55 in 2002 and compile 154 total.
Eventually, Smoltz came back as a starter and reached another milestone earlier this season when he surpassed 3,000 strikeouts.
This surgery isn’t necessarily about baseball so much as it is about the rest of Smoltz’s life. Smoltz said everyday activities such as playing with his children or doing things around the house have been difficult since his shoulder pain intensified.
“We’re talking about enjoying life a little bit more than I’ve been able to enjoy it,” he said. “It’s very difficult. A shoulder is like a lower back problem; it puts you in a pretty bad mood. You use your shoulder for everything.”
Regardless of whether you like the Braves or not – and most Pittsburgh fans do not because of the playoff losses in 1991 and 1992, you have to respect Smoltz as a pitcher. The guy is a first ballot Hall of Famer and it would be a shame if he can’t go out on his own terms. Even if he can’t return, he has nothing to be sad about and should be proud of a wonderful career.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Paulino headed to Indy?
Just about everyone around the Pirates has been very impressed with the way veteran catcher Raul Chavez has played since being recalled May 14.
Though Chavez has been mediocre offensively, it's his defense, strength in his throwing arm and the way he is handling the rotation that is turning heads.
"He's doing a nice job," Pirates manager John Russell said of Chavez. "He's handling the staff well. Each game he starts the pitching staff seems really in tune. He's got the arm to shut down a running game."
Chavez threw out two runners trying to steal and has thrown out three of five runners this season.
With Ryan Doumit set to come off the disabled list Friday, somebody has to go back to Class AAA and it might just be Ronny Paulino.
After losing his job to Doumit in spring training, Paulino hasn't impressed a whole lot since. He is batting .218 with two home runs and 18 RBI. Paulino has thrown out 29 percent of the runners attempting to steal on him (7-of-24) but the pitching staff has a team-high 5.51 ERA with Paulino behind the plate.
Russell wouldn't be specific, but said before Tuesday's game that he and general manager Neal Huntington have already discussed several options for when Doumit returns.
There is also speculation that Russell is not happy with Paulino's work ethic.
The only other possible position player who could be sent down is infielder luis rivas, who got off to a bad start but has rebounded of late. However, with shortstop Jack Wilson still not 100 percent from his calf injury, the Pirates might want to keep the extra infielder rather than a third catcher.
Though Chavez has been mediocre offensively, it's his defense, strength in his throwing arm and the way he is handling the rotation that is turning heads.
"He's doing a nice job," Pirates manager John Russell said of Chavez. "He's handling the staff well. Each game he starts the pitching staff seems really in tune. He's got the arm to shut down a running game."
Chavez threw out two runners trying to steal and has thrown out three of five runners this season.
With Ryan Doumit set to come off the disabled list Friday, somebody has to go back to Class AAA and it might just be Ronny Paulino.
After losing his job to Doumit in spring training, Paulino hasn't impressed a whole lot since. He is batting .218 with two home runs and 18 RBI. Paulino has thrown out 29 percent of the runners attempting to steal on him (7-of-24) but the pitching staff has a team-high 5.51 ERA with Paulino behind the plate.
Russell wouldn't be specific, but said before Tuesday's game that he and general manager Neal Huntington have already discussed several options for when Doumit returns.
There is also speculation that Russell is not happy with Paulino's work ethic.
The only other possible position player who could be sent down is infielder luis rivas, who got off to a bad start but has rebounded of late. However, with shortstop Jack Wilson still not 100 percent from his calf injury, the Pirates might want to keep the extra infielder rather than a third catcher.
Michaels makes bench better
Pinch-hitting situations aren’t exact science, and being a pinch-hitter has been deemed by many the toughest job in baseball.
There are times when a manager uses his hitting charts, past history and scouting reports to decide which pinch-hitter he’ll use in a certain situation.
Other times, it’s as simple as a gut feeling.
In the seventh inning Monday night with the Pirates trailing 4-0, manager John Russell saw the bases loaded and needed a pinch-hitter. No scouting reports were necessary.
He had all of the usual members of his bench – Jason Michaels, Doug Mientkiewicz, Chris Gomez, Luis Rivas and Ronny Paulino – available against St. Louis starter Adam Wainwright, who had shut the Pirates down through six innings. Russell called on Michaels.
“(Monday) night we saw some guys on the bench and thought he was the right guy for the spot,” Russell said Tuesday.
Michaels swung at the first pitch he saw from Wainwright and crushed a belt-high fastball over the left field wall for a grand slam to tie the game at 4-4. The Pirates eventually won 5-4.
“He made us look like geniuses,” Russell said of Michaels.
Most of the bench has made Russell look good lately.
Michaels also had a three-run pinch-hit double last Friday and is 5-for-10 with three doubles, a home run and eight RBI in his last five games. Gomez is batting .462 in his last 12 games, Mientkiewicz is batting .313 as a pinch hitter this season and Rivas hit his first career grand slam Saturday.
“We really are pleased with the bench we have right now,” Russell said. “We’ve got some veterans on our bench with Michaels, Gomez, Mientkiewicz and Rivas. They continue to come up with big hits in big games for us.”
Michaels has really been the one who has added a dimension to the Pirates’ bench that it did not have previously – power. Though he struggled this season in Cleveland and was subsequently designated for assignment, the Pirates knew that Michaels could provide some extra pop to the lineup.
“Michaels is a guy that we picked up that we knew had that kind of leadership and power off the bench and he’s shown that,” Russell said.
After a disappointing start in Cleveland this season, Michaels just wanted a fresh start. He hit only .207 with no home runs and nine RBI before being designated.
Pirates general manager Neal Huntington knew of Michaels from his days with Cleveland and took a flyer on the 32-year-old outfielder.
Since joining the Pirates, all Michaels has done is bat .324 with a slugging percentage of .486 to go along with his home run and 11 RBI. He is also batting .250 as a pinch hitter.
Michaels said he understands his role as a bench guy with the Pirates and has taken to pinch hitting, though he said every situation is different.
“It depends on the feel,” Michaels said. “Sometimes you go up and say maybe I’ll take one, maybe I’ll see one, maybe I’ll go up and be aggressive. (Monday) I wanted to go up and be aggressive and it ended up working out.”
Michaels has made only five starts since coming to the Pirates May 8. Of course, it’s difficult to get playing time with Jason Bay, Nate McLouth and Xavier Nady all getting off to the best starts of their careers at exactly the same time.
All three are among the league leaders in just about every major offensive category, with McLouth and Nady tied for the league lead with 18 doubles heading into Tuesday’s games.
McLouth is in the top four in seven offensive categories, Nady in four and Bay in three.
“I think all three of them should have some serious All-Star consideration,” Michaels said. “If they need a day off, I’ll be more than happy to step in.”
There are times when a manager uses his hitting charts, past history and scouting reports to decide which pinch-hitter he’ll use in a certain situation.
Other times, it’s as simple as a gut feeling.
In the seventh inning Monday night with the Pirates trailing 4-0, manager John Russell saw the bases loaded and needed a pinch-hitter. No scouting reports were necessary.
He had all of the usual members of his bench – Jason Michaels, Doug Mientkiewicz, Chris Gomez, Luis Rivas and Ronny Paulino – available against St. Louis starter Adam Wainwright, who had shut the Pirates down through six innings. Russell called on Michaels.
“(Monday) night we saw some guys on the bench and thought he was the right guy for the spot,” Russell said Tuesday.
Michaels swung at the first pitch he saw from Wainwright and crushed a belt-high fastball over the left field wall for a grand slam to tie the game at 4-4. The Pirates eventually won 5-4.
“He made us look like geniuses,” Russell said of Michaels.
Most of the bench has made Russell look good lately.
Michaels also had a three-run pinch-hit double last Friday and is 5-for-10 with three doubles, a home run and eight RBI in his last five games. Gomez is batting .462 in his last 12 games, Mientkiewicz is batting .313 as a pinch hitter this season and Rivas hit his first career grand slam Saturday.
“We really are pleased with the bench we have right now,” Russell said. “We’ve got some veterans on our bench with Michaels, Gomez, Mientkiewicz and Rivas. They continue to come up with big hits in big games for us.”
Michaels has really been the one who has added a dimension to the Pirates’ bench that it did not have previously – power. Though he struggled this season in Cleveland and was subsequently designated for assignment, the Pirates knew that Michaels could provide some extra pop to the lineup.
“Michaels is a guy that we picked up that we knew had that kind of leadership and power off the bench and he’s shown that,” Russell said.
After a disappointing start in Cleveland this season, Michaels just wanted a fresh start. He hit only .207 with no home runs and nine RBI before being designated.
Pirates general manager Neal Huntington knew of Michaels from his days with Cleveland and took a flyer on the 32-year-old outfielder.
Since joining the Pirates, all Michaels has done is bat .324 with a slugging percentage of .486 to go along with his home run and 11 RBI. He is also batting .250 as a pinch hitter.
Michaels said he understands his role as a bench guy with the Pirates and has taken to pinch hitting, though he said every situation is different.
“It depends on the feel,” Michaels said. “Sometimes you go up and say maybe I’ll take one, maybe I’ll see one, maybe I’ll go up and be aggressive. (Monday) I wanted to go up and be aggressive and it ended up working out.”
Michaels has made only five starts since coming to the Pirates May 8. Of course, it’s difficult to get playing time with Jason Bay, Nate McLouth and Xavier Nady all getting off to the best starts of their careers at exactly the same time.
All three are among the league leaders in just about every major offensive category, with McLouth and Nady tied for the league lead with 18 doubles heading into Tuesday’s games.
McLouth is in the top four in seven offensive categories, Nady in four and Bay in three.
“I think all three of them should have some serious All-Star consideration,” Michaels said. “If they need a day off, I’ll be more than happy to step in.”
Character = Pirates?
Jason Bay, who drove in the game-winning run in Pittsburgh's 5-4 come-from-behind win over St. Louis Monday had an interesting quote after the game.
"It’s kind of been the character of this team that I think we lacked in years past,” Bay said of the rally. “Too many times we’ve come close but been unable to close them out.”
Even though they are still in last place with a 27-30 record, there does seem to be more character to this year's Pirates team than in years past. Especially in the Jim Tracy era, those Pirates teams would have folded like a cheap suit.
This year's team has had its share of rallies and seemingly hasn't blown as many games as in the past. We'll see how long that lasts, however, especially with the trade deadline inching closer.
"It’s kind of been the character of this team that I think we lacked in years past,” Bay said of the rally. “Too many times we’ve come close but been unable to close them out.”
Even though they are still in last place with a 27-30 record, there does seem to be more character to this year's Pirates team than in years past. Especially in the Jim Tracy era, those Pirates teams would have folded like a cheap suit.
This year's team has had its share of rallies and seemingly hasn't blown as many games as in the past. We'll see how long that lasts, however, especially with the trade deadline inching closer.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Pirates-Astros: Here's what to look for
Here are some trends to keep an eye on this week during the Pirates series at home against Houston (Hint: Apologies for missing the St. Louis series but hey, you get free tickets for Wednesday's game):
Tuesday: Phil Dumatrait (Pittsburgh) vs. Wandy Rodriguez (Houston)
This will be Dumatrait's first appearance against Houston. … He is coming off a career-high 10 strikeouts vs. Cincinnati. … Jason Bay is 10-for-19 with two home runs and 11 RBI vs. Rodriguez. … Freddy Sanchez is 7-for-17 with a home run and Adam LaRoche is 5-for-9 with four RBI off Rodriguez.
Wednesday: Zach Duke (Pittsburgh) vs. Roy Oswalt (Houston)
Because the Pirates scored more than 24 runs against St. Louis, 2,500 free tickets in the left field and right field box seats for this game will be made available beginning Tuesday at 9 a.m. They will be available only through Pirates.com and there is a limit of eight tickets per customer.… Lance Berkman is 5-for-15 with four RBI off Duke. … Jack Wilson has a .361 average with six RBI off Oswalt and Nate McLouth has a .412 average with a home run. … Xavier Nady, however, is 1-for-17 lifetime against Oswalt.
Thursday: Paul Maholm (Pittsburgh) vs. Brandon Backe (Houston)
Houston's Carlos Lee and Berkman are a combined 4-for-27 against Maholm. … Bay has a .313 average with two home runs and five RBI against Backe while LaRoche has two home runs and four RBI.
Tuesday: Phil Dumatrait (Pittsburgh) vs. Wandy Rodriguez (Houston)
This will be Dumatrait's first appearance against Houston. … He is coming off a career-high 10 strikeouts vs. Cincinnati. … Jason Bay is 10-for-19 with two home runs and 11 RBI vs. Rodriguez. … Freddy Sanchez is 7-for-17 with a home run and Adam LaRoche is 5-for-9 with four RBI off Rodriguez.
Wednesday: Zach Duke (Pittsburgh) vs. Roy Oswalt (Houston)
Because the Pirates scored more than 24 runs against St. Louis, 2,500 free tickets in the left field and right field box seats for this game will be made available beginning Tuesday at 9 a.m. They will be available only through Pirates.com and there is a limit of eight tickets per customer.… Lance Berkman is 5-for-15 with four RBI off Duke. … Jack Wilson has a .361 average with six RBI off Oswalt and Nate McLouth has a .412 average with a home run. … Xavier Nady, however, is 1-for-17 lifetime against Oswalt.
Thursday: Paul Maholm (Pittsburgh) vs. Brandon Backe (Houston)
Houston's Carlos Lee and Berkman are a combined 4-for-27 against Maholm. … Bay has a .313 average with two home runs and five RBI against Backe while LaRoche has two home runs and four RBI.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Snell stinks again
It's time the Pirates seriously consider pulling Ian Snell from the rotation.
They should, but they won't.
Before yet another horrific start by Snell Sunday in St. Louis, Pirates manager John Russell was asked if any of the starting pitchers could be sent down to the minors to get whatever problems they are having worked out. He simply said "no," then went on to say that a lack of starting pitching depth within the organization doesn't allow the Pirates to make such a move at this time.
If the Pirates were playing for this year, I would agree. However, they have to be looking beyond this year, and they must get Snell's problems worked out sooner rather than later before he spins completely out of control.
Snell lets a lot of things get into his head, particularly outside distractions. He has been at times brutally honest about such disclosures but the fact remains he gets rattles too easily. His latest "distraction" is the new contract he signed before the season which he says has put a lot of pressure on him to perform.
Whether he needs to go to the minors or to the team psychologist, if Snell continues to struggle it could get a lot worse before it gets better.
The Pirates should take a page from Cleveland's book when they sent Cliff Lee to the minors for a period last season. He responded this year with his best season yet.
They should, but they won't.
Before yet another horrific start by Snell Sunday in St. Louis, Pirates manager John Russell was asked if any of the starting pitchers could be sent down to the minors to get whatever problems they are having worked out. He simply said "no," then went on to say that a lack of starting pitching depth within the organization doesn't allow the Pirates to make such a move at this time.
If the Pirates were playing for this year, I would agree. However, they have to be looking beyond this year, and they must get Snell's problems worked out sooner rather than later before he spins completely out of control.
Snell lets a lot of things get into his head, particularly outside distractions. He has been at times brutally honest about such disclosures but the fact remains he gets rattles too easily. His latest "distraction" is the new contract he signed before the season which he says has put a lot of pressure on him to perform.
Whether he needs to go to the minors or to the team psychologist, if Snell continues to struggle it could get a lot worse before it gets better.
The Pirates should take a page from Cleveland's book when they sent Cliff Lee to the minors for a period last season. He responded this year with his best season yet.
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