Pirates Rally To Top Mets

The Pirates overcame a five run deficit to win the opener of this 4 game series against the Mets tonight. Down 5-0 early, the Bucs picked up 3 in the fourth to keep the game close. After some nice work by the bullpen, the Pirates entered the 8th still down 5-3. Three Mets' pitchers and ten Pirates' batters later, the Bucs led 8-5. Most of the damage was done against JJ Putz, who allowed 4 singles and an intentional walk without recording an out. Great resiliency and clutch hitting by the Pirates tonight. This was certainly a feel good win, which was much needed coming off three straight lost series. It's Zach Duke against Johan Santana tomorrow.

I do have to mention tonight's starter. Ian Snell struggled yet again, allowing 5 runs and 6 hits in 6 innings. Snell walked 5 and struck out just two. He did retire 10 of the last 12 batters he faced, after the Mets had already scored 5 runs through 3 innings. Many fans are calling for Snell to be optioned to AAA, or traded, or released, or worse. Granted, Snell has not pitched well, overall, this year or last year. But he should not be released, obviously. And trading him now, when his value is minuscule, would be foolish. A stint in the minor leagues might be the answer. Or maybe he can work it out with Joe Kerrigan where he is now. But Snell is still just 28 years old, and he has very good stuff and a competitive spirit, though sometimes in a misguided manner. The Pirates should exhaust all possibilities with Snell before they even think about moving him. There is not nearly enough pitching talent in the system to cast someone off so easily. I'm still a fan of Ian Snell. I've been following him for quite some time (since the Oquendo days) and I really want him to succeed. It just may take some time though.