The Chicago Cubs completed their series victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates with a 10-1 blowout win at PNC Park on Sunday afternoon.
The Pirates are now 1-9 against the Cubs this season, having dropped three of four this weekend. Javier Assad was dominant on the mound for Chicago this afternoon, giving up one run on three hits in seven innings. Poor pitching was once again the theme for Pittsburgh, as starter Bailey Falter dropped to 1-8 on the season, giving up six runs on seven hits in 4.2 innings.
This was a game that was never really close, as the Cubs really dominated from start to finish, out-hitting the Buccos 12 to 4. Cody Bellinger’s big day at the plate started in the first inning, as his single to center field scored the game’s first run. The Pirates’ lone run of the game came in the bottom of the first, when Ke’Bryan Hayes’ groundout allowed Ji Hwan Bae to score to tie the game.
Jeimer Candelario’s two run homerun in the fourth inning gave the Bucs a two-run lead, and a two-run double by Bellinger extended the lead to 5-1. Seiya Suzuki’s double later in the inning made it 6-1. After scoring another run in the eighth, Chicago made this one a laugher with three more runs in the ninth inning. Bellinger’s third hit of the game, another two-run double, was the highlight of the frame. They would add another run later to make it 10-1, which would be the final score.
This was a game to forget for Pittsburgh. The inability of the pitching staff to keep the team in the game was the story today, as it was last night. Other than Mitch Keller, it really seems as though this team has zero confidence in any starting pitcher. This is a huge cause for concern, not only for this season, but as we look ahead to the future.
The Pirates will turn the page quickly after today’s loss as they will hit the road beginning tomorrow night against the Kansas City Royals. Johan Oviedo will be on the mound for Pittsburgh against Zack Greinke for the Royals. First pitch is scheduled for 8:10pm.
Record vs. Cubs: 1-9
Record vs. N.L. Central: 17-23
Record at Home: 32-36
Overall Record: 58-73
And…
As Always…
Let’s Go Bucs!
