Last season the Pittsburgh Pirates finished last in the National League with 73 stolen bases. Andrew McCutchen led the club with 20 stolen bases, but that was down from 23 in 2011. So far this season, McCutchen has two stolen bases in as many games and said being more aggressive while on base has been a point of emphasis for him entering the 2013 season.
“I’m just trying to get to the next bag because I have the speed to do it,” McCutchen said. “I’m not always going to be fast so I might as well use my legs now. I know I’m capable of stealing more bags than I have in past years. I just need to get myself in that position where I can get to the next bag. I’m trying to be aggressive on the base paths and get to the next bag. I have to be ready to go because they know I’m going, it’ s just a matter of when.”
**
There are a few changes to the Pirates’ lineup today. Russell Martin will hit second, Gaby Sanchez will bat cleanup with Pedro Alvarez moving down to No. 5 in the lineup. Also, Jose Tabata will get his first start of the season, batting seventh and playing right field.
1. Starling Marte lf
2. Russell Martin c
3. Andrew McCutchen cf
4. Gaby Sanchez 1b
5. Pedro Alvarez 3b
6. Neil Walker 2b
7. Jose Tabata rf
8. Clint Barmes ss
9. James McDonald p
