Jason Bay’s two-run homer in the 10th inning gave the Pittsburgh Pirates a 4-2 win over the Houston Astros on Monday night in front of a Minute Maid Park record crowd that included former president George H. W. Bush. Bay’s hit off Chad Qualls came with two outs on a 0-2 pitch and landed in the Crawford Boxes in left field. The game went to extra innings after Brad Lidge, who had a 5.28 ERA last year and blew six saves, gave up a solo homer to Xavier Nady in the ninth inning that tied it at 2. ( Courtesy Associated Press)

Total team effort from the Buccos tonight. Zach Duke pitched a solid 7 innings only surrendering 2 runs while the bullpen kept the Pirates in the game until Xavier Nady sent the game in extra innings. To pull out a win while their 3-5 hitters were a combined 1-15 was impressive to say the least. It was evident tonight that Brad Lidge may never regain his form as a elite closer. Lidge looks lost out on the mound and the fans of Houston will not put up with another sub par season from Lidge, who once was one of the games most dominant closer. A big win for the Pirates but I’m still sticking to my prediction of 72 wins.