Game 109 Recap-
New comer RH SP Jeff Karstens(1-0,0.00 Pirates debut) was strong over 6 innings, while LF Jason Michaels drove in 2 runs, helping the Pittburgh Pirates defeat the Chicago Cubs 3-0 Friday afternoon at Wrigley Field. New comers 3b Andy Laroche(kid brother of 1b Adam) had a hit and run, while RF Brandon Moss was 0 for 3 with an OF assist.
Karstens, however, was the story. Over 6 innings, he stymied one of the better lineups in baseball, the same group that just swept the young and exciting Milwaukee Brewers in Wisconsin. He allowed 5 hits with 4 walks and 2 Ks. His reason for success?”They haven’t seen me and I haven’t seen them so they really had no idea how I was going to attack them,” said Karstens, who gave up five hits. “I know we threw a lot of off-speed stuff. They’re a really good fastball hitting team and sometimes that’s what you got to do to win.”
After the strong starting effort of Karsten, the remade Pirates bullpen was strong over 3 innings. Manager John Russell did an outstanding job finding the right matchups and his staff executed. RH Denny Bautista(3rd hold,3.15) pitched 1 1/3, LH Sean Burnett(3 holds,4.25) continued his solid work with a big double play grounder in the 8th.(2/3rds of an inning). LH John Grabow(3.13) earned his 1st save in the 9th with a game ending double play.
RH Jason Marqis(6-7,4.68) got the start for the Cubs and was not bad, but was touched for all 3 runs. Over 6 innings, he gave up 8 hits and the 3 runs, while walking 1 and K-ing 2. Pittsburgh scored all the runs they would need in the 2nd when Michaels singled in C Ryan Doumit. SS Jack Wilson scored Laroche with another single. Michaels(homer #6_ added an insurance run in the 6th with a solo shot to left.
Store this Away-
This team has traded some good players in Nady, Bay and Marte but has added some young talent and continues to play hard for 1st yr Manager Russell. Credit to this staff, players and all, have not quit and play with pride. The young talent and spunk was not lost on their leader, “It was nice energy to see those guys,” manager John Russell said. “You can tell they’re excited to be here and also they have an idea of what they’re doing.”
Star of the Game-
Karstens- One of many new Pirates acquired in the past 10 days, lets hope they all pan out like this!
Pirates Notes-
Russell announced that Andy Laroche will be the everday 3b instead of Jose Bautista… Wilson had 3 hits to pace the club, 2b Luis Rivas and Michaels had 2 apiece
Next Game-
Saturday, 1:05 vs Cubs at Wrigley Field
Pirates LH Paul Maholm(7-6,3.79) vs Cubs LH Ted Lilly(10-6,4.49)
