Karstens Pitches Well (!), but Moss and Offense Fail Again

The much maligned Jeff Karstens pitched a very solid game tonight in New York only to be let down by his bullpen and offense, in a 7-3 loss. The Dynamic Duo of Tyler Yates and Sean Burnett combined to allow 5 runs on 5 hits and 2 walks in the 8th before being bailed out by Donnie Veal, of all people. And, once again, the Pirates' offense did very little in this one, leaving 9 runners on base and failing to get the clutch hit. The dreariness continues.

Brandon Moss continued to make a case for a trip to Indianapolis with another 0 for 4 game. Moss is 3 for 22 this month and is hitting only .185 on the year. Now with AAA pitcher Jimmy Barthmaier scheduled for Tommy John surgery, and a trip to the 60-Day DL, a 40-man roster spot will soon open up. I can't help but think this could mean Andrew McCutchen could be coming up. However, if we are to believe management, McCutchen's call-up will be based on when he's ready, not on any other factors. Still, I think a move of some sort could be coming. I'm pretty sure Moss still has a minor league option, so he could be sent down for a bit to get himself straightened out. Maybe the more likely replacement would be Steve Pearce, who, by the way, hit his 6th homer tonight for Indy. Or possibly Jeff Salazar, who is not on the 40-man, but now could be added. Although, Moss could just see some more time on the bench, with capable outfielder options in Craig Monroe, Delwyn Young and Eric Hinske currently on the active roster. I'm not sure if the bench is the best spot for Moss though. Or for the team, for that matter. Maybe a little roster shuffle could help motivate the hitters. And with Jack Wilson due back on Tuesday, perhaps two moves might do the trick.

Correction: Moss is, in fact, out of minor league options. So, scrap all that I wrote above here. I made a miscalculation.