An important homestand

These next 10 games could really set the tone for the year.  Reds, Cards, Braves.  It started off scary, but with a win last night.  It is important that the Pirates are still within a few games and have won some of these series.  It is early to say that this homestead is make or break, but it as close as you can get.  The Pirates could easily come out of this homestead in first place, or in last.  Everything is set up for us from pitching to having a day off before it started.  This is "almost must win territory".

That being said, the Pirates have some good stuff going on in the minors right now.  You have to think that by July the starting pitching will be 3/5ths different.  You would also think that the Pirates might have some new bench players.  Jordy Mercer in particular is going to be hard to ignore if he keeps hitting so well, and the guys in the majors hit so poorly.  Bullpen help is already on the way with Brian Morris.  Vic Black is doing well and could be another.  If Tony Watson continues to struggle, one would imagine he may disappear from the big league roster.  

Either way, keep an eye on these games.  We are not exactly know for making late season charges, so we had better take advantage early, like right now.