Something worth talking about

The Pirates last two games were just not worth talking about. Getting crushed and giving up double digits and then Daniel McCutchen getting no offensive support and losing. McCutchen gave up 4 runs in 6 innings. At least Dotel worked a scoreless 8th. Tabata got one of the two hits, and he stole a base. Nothing else was even half way good.

But there was something worth talking about over the last few days. Brooks Pounders pitched great. He gave up three hits in five innings allowing two runs and earned a win for State College. That was great news. Kevin Decker the late round pick from College of Charleston, who I like a lot mainly because I grew up watching the Southern Conference pitched a good game, and they won again tonight.

As for the Rookie League Pirates they lost a hard luck blown save game in 10 tonight. But someone needs to give a shout out to Kevin Mort, a non drafted free agent signing from Ole Miss. He is leading the team with a .400 Avg. He is not a prospect, but seems to be up to the task of Rookie League ball. Of course the better story is Eric Avlia, who is a bit of a prospect. He is hitting well also with a .364 AVG and a 1.163 OPS. These guys are leading the team.

Brett Lorin pitched 5 scoreless innings for the Rookie Pirates tonight. Rehab start for him and he looks good.

Jeff Clement is looking good in AAA as he drove in 5 of the 6 runs for an Indy win, and the rest of the Farm system lost. Although in fairness the news out of Altoona was good. Justin Wilson pitched great, but the Curve don't have their closer any more and they gave up four runs in the ninth to lose. That stuff happens when your bullpen gets promoted. D'Arnaud got a hit, and yes it was another extra base hit. Jordy Mercer is almost back up to .260 with another multiple hit game. He continues to improve. And third baseman Joey Harrison, aquired in the Hart/Gorzelanny trade was hitless, but is still above .300. He is a prospect.