Pirates Score, And Win!

Though it's been less than a week, tonight's Pirates' win over Cincinnati feels like the first victory in such a long time. It felt excruciating to watch, even on Game Cast. Grabow allowing the run in the 8th and Matt Capps, out of action for 8 days, giving up hit after hit in the 9th before finally getting the bases loaded strike out to end it. Speaking of Capps, I'm not a fan of not using your closer for such a long time. Granted, the six consecutive games he did not pitch in were either losses or blowout wins. But still, you want your closer to be sharp when you need him and I think it's important to make sure he gets work, even in non-traditional situations. This past week marks the second time this season that Capps has been on the bench for a full week. And the rust certainly showed tonight.

Anyway, regardless of how ugly the win was, a win is a win and the Bucs definitely needed this one. And now, the Pirates are tied for second once again, with a chance to win this series against the Reds. I'm never excited when Jeff Karstens is the starting pitcher, but he could be due for a decent game tomorrow. Johnny Cueto is pitching for the Reds and the Bucs have already beaten him this year, so it could happen. Hopefully, with this messy win, the Pirates can put their mini-slump behind them and start playing some good baseball again. With the hated Brewers in town for two starting Monday, it would be nice to have some positive momentum heading in to that series.