3-1 is not a bad start

The Pirates won an ugly game in Chicago to close out that series. Pedro Alvarez came through in the clutch with a stinging single to win the game . . . well by stinging I mean a little hit that was not going to make it to the infield dirt. If Carlos Marmol does not fall of the mound to the first base side, he probably makes that play and gets an out at first or at home. But instead the shortstop tries to flip it to first. Even if it was on target, Alvarez was probably safe. What happened was that it was way off and up the line. Carlos Pena did a nice diving stop to keep it in the infield, but he ended up on all fours, so Neil Walker went from second to home for the winning run following Jones who easily scored from third. The Pirates showed a lot of scrap in that game. They gave up a 2-0 lead and the 3-2 lead and were trailing 4-3 in the 8th when Tabata lifted a sac fly that should have been deep enough to score anyone from third. But, Jason Jarmillo was running and he was nailed by a good throw. Right in the kisser in fact. The Pirates still managed the rally in the bottom of the ninth not just to tie, but to win. Crotta and Karstens both pitched great with Karstens getting the win and Hanrahan the save.

Today's game was even more satisfying. Morton gave up a second inning run, but held it together. That was probably the most encouraging thing. He did not blow up when he gave up an early run. He went six strong innings and the Pirates rewarded him with a 4 run sixth to grab a lead. Meek struggled and gave up two runs and did not get anyone out, although in fairness, it looked a little like they were pitching around Pujols. I'd rather walk him than have him homer. Hanrahan got a four out save and Crotta got two outs. Veras pitched an inning as well.

Now I doubt that this outing means Morton is good to go finally. Just like it is too early to throw in the towel on Meek. He won't be this bad all season and Morton won't be that good. Still, it is encouraging for Morton to look good. It is very encouraging to see Crotta look good in two straight games. Veras has pitched well, which means he maybe a nice trade piece before the year is over.

Overall what I like the most is the Pirates really playing to win. These games have all been on the road. Hurdle has coached to win. Whether it is sending Jarmillo on a sac fly attempt which did not work out or sending Walker from second on an infield hit which did work out or even lifting Meek after just three batters something we never saw with JR last year. Hurdle is not playing games. He is out to win not build for the future. I like that attitude.