The Pirates collected two hits in the first inning and four hits in the 9th. In between they had just two hits. For the first eight innings, they had no runs. But scored four in the 9th. Unfortunately, the Indians scored four early runs off Ian Snell (who lasted just 2-2/3) and tacked on one more in the middle innings off of Evan Meek to hold out.
Cleveland starter David Huff allowed three singles, two walks and a double in eight innings. He was lifted for Matt Herges (blast from the past). Herges got into trouble almost immediately, giving up a lead off homer to Adam LaRoche. Herges was replaced by Kerry Wood who allowed two more run scoring knocks before getting LaRoche the Elder to whiff with the bases loaded and two out to end the game.
Huff picks up his third straight win. Snell is the loser and Wood is nicked but gets the save.
The Good
Better late than never for the offense. But, sheesh.
The bullpen went 6-1/3 and allowed just one run and three hits.
Matt Capps struck out the side in the 9th.
The Bad
Too many opposing starters pitching too deep into games.
Bucs have a five game losing streak.
The Rest
This is the second time this year (15 starts) that Snell has failed to get more than nine outs. From 2006-2008 (95 starts) he had only two such outings.
Adam LaRoche is hitting .338 with three dingers in June. Typical LaRoche summertime heat wave.
After 70 games last year, Pittsburgh was 34-36. This year the record stands at 31-39.
