After losing the first two games of the season, the Pirates were able to win yesterday and today to not only split the series, but win the season series against the Phillies. AJ Burnett won his eighth straight start and stands at an outstanding record of 9-2. He pitched 6.2 innings and allowed three runs on six hits, while fanning seven. He certainly didn't have his best start, but the offense was able to back him up with a huge first inning. Juan Cruz (13) and Jason Grilli (18) had holds and Grilli's eighth inning featured an amazing running catch into the stands by Casey McGehee to end a huge threat. Joel Hanrahan converted his 20th save of the season.
The Pirates had a huge first inning off of Kyle Kendrick. All five of the Pirates runs were scored and Garrett Jones drove in Drew Sutton, and was followed by Casey McGehee who hit a three run home run, which is his second straight day with a homer. Pedro Alvarez followed McGehee with a solo home run, his 14th, and the Pirates only collected three hits the rest of the game.
After two tough games to start the series, a split was great to see. Kevin Correia, Jeff Karstens, and Erik Bedard are set to pitch in St. Louis this weekend, a huge series for the National League Central standings.