AJ Burnett had a solid start for the Pirates and the bullpen shut down the Cubs in the late innings for a win to start the series. Burnett only pitched 5.1 innings but allowed no runs and struck out six. The bullpen was at it again for the Pirates tonight. Jared Hughes (4), Jason Grilli (11), and Juan Cruz (8) all picked up holds and Joel Hanrahan converted another save. Hanrahan gave the Pirates a scare putting the tying run at third with one out but struck out David Dejesus and Starlin Castro to end it.
The offense did not produce much, and should be thankful the pitching staff was superb. Rod Barajas had two hits, including an RBI single that scored Pedro Alvarez from second. The recently recalled Matt Hague had a hit and Neil Walker, Pedro Alvarez, Josh Harrison, and Clint Barmes contributed hits as well. Harrison's hit extended his hit streak to ten games.
Former Bucco and the most winningest pitcher of all time at PNC Park Paul Maholm makes his return tomorrow night to face Kevin Correia.