No earned runs allowed and we still lose (2-9)

That is right. The Pirates did not give up an earned run all day. Yet, the Pirates still managed to give away three runs. Four errors, two on one play that gave up a run were more than enough for the A's to win the game.

What was the good news? Tabata does appear to be heating up with two hits. Milledge is still hot, and now has a homerun. McCutchen's mini slump is over with a 1 for 3 night. Young got a clutch pinch hit, and Alvarez drew a pinch hitting walk. And Ross Ohlendorf looked great.

What was the bad news? Our defense was awful, and it was our defensive team in the game with LaRoche and Jarmillo playing, both were involved in run scoring errors. We squandered opportunities. Young gets a lead off hit in the ninth, but the next batter is a double play. We get the next guy on (Alvarez), and then Tabata drills one that bounces off of Alvarez for an out. Not good. Not good.

Jarmillo, I think should be in AAA. I like the kid, but I think he would benefit from everyday play. He was much better last year when he was regularly playing in a rotation while Doumit was hurt. Now he is shaky and has nothing to offer at the plate. Bring up Kratz, who has a better bat, and see if Jarmillo can turn into something at AAA.