The Pirates open a four-game series against the Phillies tonight at PNC Park. Zach Thompson (3-7, 4.64 ERA) pitches for the Pirates against the Phils’ Zack Wheeler (8-5, 2.78 ERA). It’s a 6:40 airtime, 7:05 first pitch on WCCS.
The Bucs yesterday announced the signing of their fourth-round draft choice, left-handed pitcher Michael Kennedy, who signed for $1 million, almost twice the slot value for that round. They also signed another lefty, 13th round-choice Miguel Fulgencio. That makes 16 of the 21 draftees who have signed. First rounder Termarr Johnson still has not signed. Their 12th-, 14th-, and 15th-round choices also are unsigned.
MLB
The top pick in the draft, shortstop Jackson Holliday, yesterday signed with the Baltimore Orioles. His deal includes an $8.19 million signing bonus.
The New York Yankees yesterday acquired All-Star Anthony Benintendi from Kansas City for three prospects. The former Red Sox outfielder hitting .320 this season.
The Angels announced that star center fielder Mike Trout has a rare spinal condition that will plague him for the rest of his life. He has not played since July 12th but says he wants to come back this season.
Mets ace Jacob DeGrom, who has not appeared in an MLB game since last September, may return to the rotation next week from a shoulder injury.
ALTOONA CURVE
Altoona was blasted by Bowie for the second straight game, 12-3. Aaron Shortridge gave up eight runs, seven earned, in three innings. Outfielder Fabricio Macias hit a two-run homer for the Curve.
Game Three of the series is at 12:05 this afternoon. Right-hander Luis Ortiz starts for the Curve.
