DHP_1736
Charlie Morton (6-4, 4.61 ERA) went 5 2/3 innings, allowing 6 hits, 3 earned runs, while striking out 5 and walking 4 in receiving a no decision in the Pirates 8-7 win over the Twins tonight.
Morton struggled with his command again, walking 4, throwing just 64 strikes on 105 pitches and 13 first pitch strikes in facing 25 batters. After pitching a 1-2-3 fifth, Morton took the mound in the sixth with a 3-2 lead. He allowed a lead off walk to Miguel Sano but came back by striking out Trevor Plouffe and Eddie Rosario with swing and misses.
 Morton, though, was unable to finish the inning as Aaron Hicks down 0-2 in the count, triple to deep right center off Morton, tying the game at 3-3. Overall it was a poor night for Morton on the mound but he found ways to limit the damage in only allowing 3 runs and one run came on a throwing error by Aramis Ramirez in the first.
Morton has allowed 4 earned or more in three straight starts and has a 1.44 WHIP during that span. In five July starts, Morton posted a 19/15 K/BB ratio. Cause of concern?
2015 Stats: 6-4, 4.61 ERA, 41 SO, 24 BB, 1.34 WHIP