James McDonald started the game and went 5.2 innings giving up 3 earned runs on 5 hits, 2 walks, and 4 strikeouts. Chris Resop was somewhat responsible for 2 of those runs as he couldn't strand the pair that McDonald left on base. It was another pretty inefficient night for McDonald, but his stuff looked pretty good and he continues to battle and keep the team in ball games while lowering his ERA slowly. After the top of the 6th was over and the Pirates had lost the lead, "Mc" #2 stepped in. Andrew McCutchen hit a solo home run over the right center field fence to tie the game at 3.
Jose Veras came in the tie game in the 8th and gave up the go-ahead run and loaded the bases before being yanked for our 3rd "Mc" of the night... Daniel McCutchen. D-Cutch got out of it and left the bases loaded. He would eventually be credited with the win for his efforts.
Matt Diaz walked, the pinch runner Pedro Ciriaco broke up a double play, and Lyle Overbay singled before the birthday boy Josh Harrison could drive in the tying run on the first pitch he saw from Carlos Marmol, who entered the game with 2 outs in the 8th. After that, it was time for our 4th "Mc" to the put the game out of reach.
Michael McKenry hit his first big league home run with 2 runners on base to give the Pirates the 3-run lead, and basically win the game right there as Joel Hanrahan warmed up in the bullpen. Of course, Hanrahan struck out 2 and retired the Cubs in order and recorded his 26th consecutive save of the year.
It was a heck of a night for the Pirates and for all the Mc's on the team as the Pirates pushed themselves within a half game of first place.
I know it's ridiculous to say I had something to do with this, but I'm having trouble not taking some credit. You're welcome, Pittsburgh.
The "Mc" Effect is stronger than ever, let's go Bucs!