With a fourth straight disappointing start, James McDonald (10-5, 3.38 ERA) struggles on the mound is becoming a growing concern for the Pirates with two months left in the season. In the Pirates 9-5 loss to Houston on Sunday, McDonald walked a career-high 7 batters, in just five innings, allowing 6 hits and 5 runs. McDonald has allowed 16 earned runs in his last three starts and has an 8.71 ERA in his last four starts. The biggest concern with McDonald has been the walks, as he’s walked 19 batters in his last four starts and has pitched 5 innings or less in three of his last four starts.

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