The Pittsburgh Pirates head to Arizona for a crucial series, trailing the Diamondbacks by half a game in the NL Wild Card race. Both teams are in good form, with the Pirates facing real talent and the Diamondbacks boasting a strong offense. Key injuries will impact both teams, with the Pirates hoping for returns from left-handed reliever Ryan Borucki and left-handed starter Bailey Falter, and Arizona dealing with sidelined starting pitchers Merrill Kelly, Blake Walston, and Eduardo Rodriguez. The matchup to watch is the Pittsburgh pitching staff against the Arizona offense, as both teams vie for a place in the Wild Card race.
Category Archives: Opinion & Analysis
Starter Spotlight: Keys to Attack Zac Gallen
7-26-24 – By Michael Castrignano – @412DoublePlay on X Pirates head to the desert to face the defending NL champion Arizona Diamondbacks, and they begin the series facing the Dbacks Cy Young finalist in starting pitcher, Zac Gallen. The bespectacled Gallen has been a workhorse as the ace of the Snakes staff over the past few years,Continue reading “Starter Spotlight: Keys to Attack Zac Gallen”
Why Do the Pirates Insist on Playing Yasmani Grandal or Catchers Like Him?
The Pittsburgh Pirates prioritize defensive value over offense in their catcher position, relying on Yasmani Grandal to guide pitchers, make game adjustments, and improve outing efficiency. This strategic focus supports their pitching staff’s development.
Starter Spotlight: Southpaw Showdown
7-24-24 – By Michael Castrignano – @412DoublePlay on X After a heart-wrenching loss last night, the Pirates will look to win the rubber match today, sending veteran lefty, Martín Pérez, who will face off against fellow southpaw Matthew Liberatore in what will likely be a bullpen game for the visiting Red Birds. Liberatore has bounced between theContinue reading “Starter Spotlight: Southpaw Showdown”
Starter Spotlight: These Bucs Don’t F-LYNN-ch
7-23-24 – By Michael Castrignano – @412DoublePlay on X Another day, another rematch from earlier this season in today’s game as the Pirates face veteran and long-time foe in Lance Lynn, who enters tonight’s game with some dismal numbers both on the season (4.39 ERA and -0.6 bWAR) and his in career against the Pirates (5.34 ERAContinue reading “Starter Spotlight: These Bucs Don’t F-LYNN-ch”
Five Pirates Thoughts at Five – Quick Out the Gate
The Pirates are in a good position, winning against the Phillies and considering their playoff potential. They have specific needs for the trade deadline, particularly for outfielders. The starting rotation is versatile. The upcoming series against the Cardinals is crucial.
Starter Spotlight: My Rematch With Andre
7-22-24 – By Michael Castrignano – @412DoublePlay on X Last time Andre Pallante faced off against the Pirates, he came away with a no decision despite tossing 7 innings of 4-hit, 1-run ball in an eventual 3-2 win by the Cardinals. It was the best performance of the season for the Red Birds righty and one theContinue reading “Starter Spotlight: My Rematch With Andre”
Series Preview: Cardinals (52-47) at Pirates (50-49)
7-22-24 – By Michael Castrignano –@412DoublePlay on X The Pirates and Cardinals meet for a three game series, each fresh off taking 2 of 3 from an NL East playoff contender and with some high stakes at play. They’ve taken vastly different routes to get where they are – with the Pirates relying on a youthContinue reading “Series Preview: Cardinals (52-47) at Pirates (50-49)”
Starter Spotlight: Can They Get The Sweep?
7-21-24 – By Michael Castrignano – @412DoublePlay on X A comeback win Friday. A dominant pitching performance on Saturday. What is in store for the final game of the series today? Pirates will face off against rookie Tyler Phillips with a potential sweep of the best team in baseball on the line. Phillips has posted a 4.50Continue reading “Starter Spotlight: Can They Get The Sweep?”
This Pirates Team Has a Lot to Do, but They’ve Already Earned One Thing, Their Swagger
The Pittsburgh Pirates have built momentum with strong pitching, consistent hitting, and a confident mindset. Despite challenges, the team is on the rise and proving to be a formidable force in the league.
Steel City Pirates 