One night after blanking the Rockies, the Pirates took a beating from them, losing game two of their series at PNC Park. Joe Block has the recap.
Manager Derek Shelton says the Pirates are having trouble generating offense.
Shelton says the Bucs are having particular difficulty hitting with runners in scoring position.
Despite some obvious struggles, Shelton says he was pleased with his first look this season at his starter, Ortiz. He especially liked his changeup.
More roster moves by the Pirates yesterday, as they designated pitcher Chase De Jong for assignment and added Indianapolis outfielder Josh Palacios, who started the season in Altoona. Palacios hit a combined .368 with four home runs and 22 RBIs in the minors this year after being acquired in the Minor League Rule 5 draft in December. He was 0-for-2 last night.
The Pirates also returned reliever Cody Bolton to Indianapolis in order to activate last night’s starter, Luis Ortiz.
In today’s series finale, the Pirates’ lefty Rich Hill [3-3, 4.54 ERA] pitches against Colorado’s right-hander Antonio Senzatela [0-1, 1.80 ERA], making only his second appearance of the season. It’s an afternoon affair on WCCS. 12:10 airtime, 12:35 first pitch.
ALTOONA
Henry Davis is on fire for the Altoona Curve, but even his 3-for-4 night with two home runs were not enough as the Curve lost to Akron, 12-6 in 11 innings. Altoona pitchers gave up seven runs in the top of the 11th. Davis raised his average to .316 and could be on the verge of a promotion to Indianapolis. Matt Gorski had three hits, including a double and a home run for the Curve.
It’s another Education Day game today for the Curve, with the first pitch scheduled for 11 AM. Altoona has not named its starting pitcher yet.
