Game 59 Recap-
In a game that featured two starters that have had mixed success versus their opponents both changed roles as Pirates LH Zach Duke(0-3,4.08 era vs Houston in 7 games) won and Astros Roy Oswalt(5-0,1.48 era in last 8 starts vs Pittsburgh) lost, as Pittsburgh won 5-2 at PNC Park Thursday. Duke’s catcher helped his cause with a 3 rbis, via a 2 run single in the 4th and an 8th inning sacrifice fly.
After ex Pirate Ty Wigginton homered in the 3rd for a 1-0 lead, the Pirates scored 3 versus Oswalt(6 IP, 9 hits, 4 runs(3 earned) with 1 walk and 4 Ks) in the 4th with 1b Adam Laroche(rbi single) and Chavez getting the big hits. CF Nate McLouth singled in another run in the 5th for a 4-1 lead. Houston LF Carlos Lee singled in the 6th to make it 4-2. Chavez’ insurance rbi came in the 8th.
LH SP Zach Duke pitched great and went deep into the game.(7 2/3 innings, 7 hits with 2 runs allowed. Walked and struck out 2.) LH Damaso Marte(4.05) got a batter out in the 8th for a his 11th hold and closer Matt Capps got an easy 1-2-3 in the 9th for his 12th save.
Star of the Game-
Duke & Chavez-Co-stars who deserve it after this performance.
Pirates Notes-
Pittsburgh picks #2 in the MLB draft Thursday, college star, Vanderbilt 3b Pedro Alvarez is thought to be their target at the pick…..Today’s loss was Oswalt’s 1st vs Pittsburgh since April 25,2005.. 2b Freddy Sanchez and RF Xavier Nady had 2 hits to lead the Pittsburgh offense
Next Game-
Thursday, 7:05 PNC Park
Pirates LH Paul Maholm(3-5,4.74) vs Astros RH Brandon Backe(4-6,4.54)
