Friday, March 16, 2007

Bullpen Implodes in Loss to Tampa Bay

The Pirates bullpen, for the most part, has been very solid so far this spring. The majority of the pitchers who will end up in Pittsburgh come April have battled, including Dan Kolb, a spring surprise who is making the idea of cutting him a hard one to except for Tracy and Co.

Today, however, the bullpen lost their groove and allowed five earned runs over the final three innings as the Devil Rays beat the Bucs, 8-3, in St. Petersburg. Kevin Gryboski allowed four runs, three earned, in his one inning of work, while Jonah Bayliss and Marty McCleary each gave up single runs in their innings on the hill.

Left-hander Tom Gorzelanny made his second start, and fourth appearance, of the spring and allowed two runs on five hits in four innings worked.

Michael Ryan continues to hit for the Pirates, going 2-for-4, with a run scored. Andrew McCutchen had a hit in 5 at-bats, Jose Bautista and Nate McLouth each drove in runs for the Pirates.

McCutchen also continued his excellent defense in centerfield with another highlight reel, over-the-shoulder catch against Tampa Bay.

No comments: