The Pirates offense wasn't anything to write about tonight, scoring only 2 runs on 5 hits. The only offense came in the first inning when Lastings Milledge, who walked, and Andy LaRoche scored on a Ryan Doumit single which was misplayed by Matt Kemp (the scorekeeper gave Doumit a triple). After that, Clayton Kershaw was very good and the Dodgers pen allowed only 2 hits. All of that didn't matter with how the Pirates pitched tonight however, it sure feels good to win these close games.
Things to note:
- Ryan Doumit extended his hitting streak to 9, and Andy LaRoche's short streak came to end, not that he didn't hit the ball well, he hit a ball that would have been a home run in almost any other circumstances, but the deep fence and the high winds kept it in.
- Ronny Cedeno's struggles continue with another 0-4 performance. His season average now stands at .211.
- Evan Meek got the save opportunity tonight, probably nothing of note, but interesting nonetheless, especially since he set the Dodgers down 1-2-3 with ease in his inning of work.
- The Pirates move into sole possession of 3rd place after their win and a Brewers loss. The Brew Crew got pounded by San Diego, 9-0. We trail the red hot Cardinals by 5 games and the streaking Reds by 1 game.
- The Pirates have serious momentum heading into Charlie Morton's start tomorrow. Seeing guys like Jeff Karstens and Brian Burres going out and shutting down offenses has to be motivated him and giving him some confidence, let's hope he can emulate their successes tomorrow.