Pirates/MLB
Pittsburgh Pirates PIRATES 6 – DODGERS 1
Win: Francisco Liriano (2-7)
Loss: Dan Haren (8-8)
AROUND THE BASES
PITTSBURGH — Francisco Liriano pitched seven strong innings and the Pirates (54-47) erupted early with a four-run first inning, en route to a 6-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers (56-47) on Wednesday night at PNC Park
Liriano earning his second win of the season, allowed four hits and one earned run over seven innings. He struck out four and walked two, hit a batter. It was Liriano’s first home win (regular season) since August 30, 2013.
“He’s heading in right direction,” Hurdle said of Liriano. Lirano’s velocity is ticking up the last couple starts as he’s starting to show signs of getting his slider going.
Liriano had control issues in the first inning walking two in a 22 pitched (11 strikes, 11 balls) inning, but only one ball was put in play among the five batters he faced.
It would be smooth sailing the rest of the way for Liriano. He pitched seven innings or more for the first time since April 21. He said afterwards it was important for him getting ahead of the count tonight.
“I was getting ahead of the count,” Liriano said. “Everything was way better, getting ahead of the count, staying ahead.”
Offensively the Pirates got contributions throughout the lineup for the second straight night. Travis Snider had a big night and went 2-3 with a home rum and scored three runs. Including pinch hitting, Hurdle cited Snider swinging the bat better over the last four starts he’s made in the outfield.
“Swinging bat better, better command of strike zone,” Hurdle said of Snider. “He plays with confidence, plays a solid defensive outfield. He’s found a nice little groove right now.”
Josh Harrison went 2-4 with two RBI, Russell Martin also added two hits and drove in a run.
The Pirates winning five of six games since the All-Star break, improved to 54-47, a season best seven games above .500. The Pirates begin a 10 game road trip Friday night in Colorado. The road trip is highlighted by a three game stand with the San Francisco Giants.
POST-GAME NOTES
- Starling Marte was officially placed on the 7-day DL due to concussion symptoms.
- Gerrit Cole threw a simulation game and it went well as he threw 70 pitches. Cole indicated prior to the game he won’t be making the mistake of rushing back this time. “It’s important to come back and give quality starts,” Cole said. “If it takes longer, so be it.” Cole’s next step is expected to be a rehab start and it hasn’t been ruled out that he will make two rehab starts before returning.
- The Pirates earned their 34th home win, tied for MLB lead. Pittsburgh don’t return home until August 5th
BOX SCORE
