THE BULLPEN

We want a pitcher, not a belly-itcher! Your Pittsburgh Pirates conclude their homestand today as they wrap up their series with the Cincy Reds at PNC Park. These are your keys to today's game. 1)The Pirates go for a season-high 5th win in a row. #5 would not be jive! 2)Today's pitching matchup is a replay of last October's wildcard game as Cincy starts RH Johnny Cueto, 15-8, 2.26 ERA. The Pirates counter with lefty Francisco Liriano, 3-10, 3.98 ERA. Cue-to has lost 2 starts in a row.  If it's 3 it's for me! 3) The Pirates have held Cincy to 3 runs in the first 2 games of this series. Kick 'em while they're down & hit 'em with the ol' Hit, Run & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Hey, batter, batter, batter! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their BIG series with Cincy this afternoon as they face the Reds at PNC Park. These are your keys to today's game. 1)The Pirates have won 6 of their last 8 and go for 4 in a row. Get win #4 with plenty o' Hit, Run, & Score! 2)Cincy has lost 6 consecutive road games. #7 would be heaven! 3)Since June 19, the Pirates lead MLB with a 23-9 home record.  Cincy starts RH Alfred Simon, 13-8, 3.26 ERA. The Pirates counter with RH Vance Worley, 5-4, 3.14 ERA. The Vanimal needs to chew up Cincy while the Bucs feast on the Chicken Alfredo. Love that home cookin'. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

 

 

Woop! Woop! Woop! Every picture tells a story, don't it? Read it & weep Cardinal & Brewer fans!

 

CENTRAL	W	L	PCT	GB	HOME	ROAD	RS	RA	DIFF	STRK	L10	POFF
Milwaukee	73	61	.545	-	36-31	37-30	574	547	+27	Lost 3	4-6	80.4
St. Louis	71	62	.534	1.5	39-27	32-35	498	515	-17	Lost 3	5-5	52.0
Pittsburgh	70	64	.522	3	43-27	27-37	565	553	+12	Won 3	6-4	38.2
Cincinnati	65	70	.481	8.5	36-32	29-38	510	501	+9	Lost 1	4-6	2.1
Chicago Cubs

THE BULLPEN

The crack of the bat, the thrill of the hit! Your Pittsburgh Pirates open up another HUGE series with a division rival tonight as they battle the Cincy Reds at PNC Park. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)After capturing back-to-back series against Milwaukee and St Louie, the Pirates will look to continue improvement of their woeful record against divisional opponents, 26-32. Line 'em up and knock 'em down! 2) Cincy goes with RH Mike Leake, 10-11, 3.51 ERA. The Pirates will give the ball to RH Edinson Volquez, 11-7, 3.56 ERA. Eddy has been steady in his last 6 starts, going 3-0 with a 2.57 ERA. Give Eddy #4 with plenty o' Hit, Run, & Score! 3)Cincy ran all over the Scrubs yesterday in a 7-2 win, stealing 6 bases. Spead kills. Keep them off the basepaths! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

BLUES N'AT

    Yesterday, August 27, marked one of the saddest dates in blues history as an icon was taken from us far too soon on this date in 1990. Stevie Ray Vaughan was 35 years old when he died and he was just getting his life and music back on track when he left us.
    
     Stevie Ray was born in Dallas, TX on October 3, 1954. At age 7, he began playing the guitar, just like his older brother, Jimmie. Stevie Ray honed has skills in local bands as a teenager, eventually dropping out of high school in 1971. A year later he made the move to Austin, TX, where his legend would grow.

     SRV played in the Nightcrawlers with Marc Benno and Doyle Bramhall and the Cobras with Denny Freeman. Later, he formed his own band, Triple Threat, featuring vocalist Lou Ann Barton. Eventually, that band would morph into Double Trouble with drummer Chris Layton and Tommy Shannon on bass.

     Relying on influences like Albert King, Muddy Waters, Otis Rush, Jimi Hendrix, and Freddie King, Stevie Ray and Double Trouble helped spearhead the blues revival of the 1980's. Their breakout performance came at the 1982 Montreux Jazz Festival. From there, they took off.

     SRV and Double Trouble toured with acts such as Jeff Beck and Joe Cocker. Stevie Ray performed on David Bowie's "Last Dance" album and was expected to join Bowie's "Serious Moonlight" tour. However, SRV took a chance and left Bowie's touring band days before the tour began. He wished to pursue a career fronting Double Trouble.

      In 1983, they released their debut album, "Texas Flood". They followed that up with "Couldn't Stand the Weather" in 1984. As he released "Soul to Soul" in 1985 and "Live Alive" in 1986, the struggles of alcohol and cocaine addiction began to take hold of his career and his life.

     Stevie Ray came back in 1988 with "In Step", celebrating both his music and his newfound sobriety. Next came "Family Style" in 1990 with his brother Jimmie. Yes, Stevie Ray was back "in step" with his music and his career.

     In August, 1990, Double Trouble opened 2 shows for Eric Clapton at Alpine Valley Music Theatre in East Troy, WI. On the second night, August 26, the show ended wth EC, SRV, Jimmie, Buddy Guy and Robert Cray jamming to "Sweet Home Chicago". SRV's helicopter, also carrying members of Clapton's entourage, crashed departing the amphitheater that evening due to foggy weather conditions. All aboard died instantly.

     Just like that, Stevie Ray was gone in an instant. The 6-time Grammy winner has continued to garner accolades, even after his passing. He was a 2000 Blues Hall of Fame inductee. Stevie Ray was also inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame this year. And his adopted hometown, Austin, TX honored him with a statue, his beloved Fender guitar at his side.

     It seemed like Stevie Ray Vaughan was just getting his life back together when it all ended much too soon. But Stevie Ray was doing what he enjoyed most on the night of his passing, playing the blues for me and for you. Until next time, boys and girls. Keep It Bluesy!

THE BULLPEN

Root, root, root for the home team! Your Pittsburgh Pirates wrap up their HUGE series with St Louie this afternoon at PNC Park. These are your keys to today's game. 1)The Pirates pulled out a 5-2 win last night thanks to Ike Davis' late inning heroics. Ike found the fence with a 2-out, pinch-hit, 3 run homer to put it in the win column for the Buccos. Today, the Pirates can take the series with another win. Hoist the colors! 2)The Pirates will have their hands full with St Louie RH Adam Wainwright, 15-8, 2.52 ERA. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD! 3)The Pirates will go with lefty Jeff Locke, 5-3, 3.69 ERA. Help Lockedown the Cards with a can of Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Bucco fever, catch it! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their HUGE series with the St Louie Cardinals tonight at PNC Park. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates have dropped 2 straight, including last night's opener, 3-2. The Bucs grounded into 3 double plays, left 5 men on base, and were a lowly 1 for 5 with runners in scoring position. You can't leave Bucs on the pond. You have to take advantage of opportunities, especially against this team. Take Care of Business. Score early, score often, score BIG! 2)St Louie starts RH Lance Lynn, 14-8, 2.78 ERA. Lynn has won 3 in a row. Don't give him #4. Hit, Run & Score! 3)All aboard the Cole Train as the Pirates start RH Gerrit Cole, 7-4, 3.69 ERA. In his 2 outings vs. St Louie this season, Cole has given up just 3 runs in 14 innings. Get the Pirates on the right track and back in the win column! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Rounding third and heading for home! Your Pittsburgh Pirates open a crucial 3 game series tonight at PNC Park against the St Louie Cardinals. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)It's a tale of 2 teams as St Louie is 7-3 in their last 10 games and the Pirates are 3-7. Turn your luck around. Deck the Cards! 2)The Cardinals will start RH John Lackey, 12-8, 3.88 ERA. Lackey was a trade deadline pickup from the Red Sox. Lackey is famous for the "chicken and beer" story out of Boston a few seasons back Apparently, Lackey and some other former Red Sox teammates enjoyed lounging in the locker room eating fried chicken and drinking beer during games. Call up KFC on the way to the beer distributor. Give him a side of Hit, Run, & Score! 3)The Pirates send LH Francisco Liriano, 3-10, 4.18 ERA to the hill. Frankie is looking to rebound. In his last start, he surrendered 9 runs, 7 earned, on 10 hits through 4 plus innings in an 11-3 home loss to Atl. Get back in the win column, Filthy Frankie! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Give us any chance, we'll take it, give us any rule, we'll break it! It's last call for your Pittsburgh Pirates as they close out their series against the Milwaukee Brewers this afternoon. These are your keys to today's game. 1)The Pirates scored another come-from-behind victory with last night's 10-2 pummeling of the Brewers. With that win, the Pirates continue to lead the NL with 34 comeback wins. Keep calm and win ballgames! 2)In the first 2 games of this series, the Battlin' Bucs have scored 18 runs while holding Milwaukee to 5. Give us more Hit, Run & Score! 3)The Pirates have won 3 straight while the Brewers have dropped 3 in a row. Shut the front door, get #4! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

In Heaven there is no beer, that's why we drink it here! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series with the Brewers tonight in Milwaukee. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)Following last night's series opening 8-3 win, the Pirates go for their 3rd straight overall win tonight. If it's 3, it's for me! 2)The Pirates will face RH Wily Peralta, 15-7, 3.27 ERA. Peralta has won 4 straight at home with a 1.03 ERA as he looks to become MLB's first 16-game winner this season. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD with a big ol' mug o' Hit, Run & Score! 3)The Pirates will start RH Edinson Volquez, 10-7, 3.58 ERA. Eddy is 2-0 with a 2.16 ERA in 4 starts for the month of August. Steady Eddy! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Schlemiel! Schlimazel! Hasenpfeffer Incorporated! Your Pittsburgh Pirates take their show on the road to Milwaukee to begin a crucial 3-game series tonight against the Brewers. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates broke their season high 7-game losing streak in walkoff fashion on Wednesday. Gaby Sanchez sacked up in the bottom of the 9th to win it 3-2. Trouble is brewing for the Brewers! 2)With Wednesday night's win, the Pirates came from behind for the 32nd time this season to put one in the win column. Down, but NEVER out! 3)The Pirates will start LH Jeff Locke, 4-3, 3.73 ERA. Milwaukee will send RH Yovani Gallardo, 8-6, 3.32 ERA to the mound. In his last 6 starts versus the Bucs, Gallardo is 2-0 with a 2.06 ERA. Score early, score often, score BIG with a big, ol' can o' Hit, Run & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE 50-YARD LINE

    Chew tobacco, chew tobacco, spit, spit, spit! Your Pittsburgh Steelers open their 2014 campaign at home against the Cleveland Clowns. Right now, they are 1-1 in the preseason. The Steelers are in search of their NFL best 7th Lombardi Trophy. Many variables will have to fall into place as the Steelers look to return to the postseason for the first time since 2011. Mrs. Black-N-Gold looks at 7 players that will be counted on to get the Steelers to the Stairway to Seven.

    #1-S Mike Mitchell-The Steelers don't typically chase the first wave of free agents when the signing period begins. Heck, they usually don't even go after any of the second wave, either. That changed this offseason when they almost immediately signed S Mike Mitchell to a 5 year, $25 million contract. The 27 year old, oft-fined Mitchell replaces Ryan Clark, who wore out his welcome in Pittsburgh. Mitchell began training camp on the PUP list with a groin injury suffered while working out. This denied Mitchell valuable practice time with fellow backfield mate Troy Polamalu. Mitchell's signing instantly helped make a gray-haired Steelers secondary younger. The former 2009 second round pick of the Oakland Raiders (#47 overall out of Ohio) comes to the Steelers by way of the Carolina Panthers #2 ranked defense. With 6 career picks, he will be called upon to help the Steelers in both the passing game and run support, while getting acclimated to Polamalu's style of play. Only time will tell if Mitchell can be Magic Mike for the Steelers.

    #2-G David DeCastro-DeCastro came to the Steelers with high expectations as a first round pick, 24th overall, out of Stanford in 2012. The Steelers looked like they snagged the "steal" of the draft. Unfortunately, DeCastro missed the first half of his rookie season due to injury. That made last season his first full season in the NFL. It did not get off to good start as he, inadvertently, took out the knee of C Maurkice Pouncey in the first game of the season, sending the center to IR. But the injury-riddled line began to gel as the season progressed and DeCastro's play improved by leaps and bounds. He's been mentioned as a future Pro Bowler, the Steelers new Alan Faneca, a linchpin for the offensive line. His time is expected to be now. Helping keep QB Ben Roethlisberger clean and clearing holes for the backfield are priority #1 for this former #1 pick.

    #3-WR Markus Wheaton-The word from training camp last year was that this 2013 3rd round pick, 79th overall out of Oregon State, would make the Steelers and their fans forget all about another former 3rd round pick who took his talents to South Beach. That was not the case as the former track and field star suffered injury setbacks in his rookie campaign. Now that WR Emmanuel Sanders is sucking up to Peyton Manning in Denver, Wheaton will be called upon to take his place opposite Antonio Brown. Wheaton will be eager to show off the speed that made him a training camp darling and impress both his quarterback and the fans.

   #4- LB Jason Worilds-The former 2010 second round pick from Virginia Tech, #52 overall, is the first of 2 Steelers LB under Mrs. Black-N-Gold's microscope. After a breakout season that ended in injury last year, the Steelers signed Worilds to a 1 year, $9.754 million deal on the transition tag. The injury prone Worilds finally cracked the starting lineup last year, earning that big payday. But with just 18 career sacks and a laundry list of injuries, can the Steelers depend on Worilds or will he turn into the second-coming of LaMarr Woodley? This question may be on the Steelers' minds as they've yet to sign the outside linebacker to a long-term deal.

    #5-LB Jarvis Jones-The 2013 1st round pick out of Georgia, #17 overall, was forced into action as a rookie last season due to injuries. Usually the Steelers like their rookies, especially on defense, to learn the system before plugging them into the lineup. Jones has no where to go but up as he only recorded 1 sack last season. The Steelers even brought in former OLB Joey Porter to mentor Jones. Now that he has a season under his belt and Peezy lighting a fire under his butt, the Steelers are expecting big things this season from Jones.

    #6-RB LeGarrette Blount-The Steelers signed Blount to a 2 year contract in the offseason to complement the running game of LeV'eon Bell. Blount is expected to bolster the Steelers running attack, bringing with him 2,711 career rushing yards and 20 rushing TDs in stops with Tennessee, Tampa Bay and New England. Undrafted out of Oregon in 2010, Blount brings with him a little baggage due to transgressions made in college and the pros. The Steelers would like to think that he's over the hump with his issues and will help their running game find the endzone this season. However, that will remain to be seen following yesterday's charges of marijuana possession for both Blount and Bell (who was also charged with DUI).

    #7-QB Ben Roethlisberger-You would think a 2004 first round pick, #11 overall out of Miami (OH), and a 2-time Super Bowl winner wouldn't have much left to prove in the NFL. However, the 32 year old Roethlisberger will be in the final year of his contract next season and hopes to cash in on one more big payday. He'd like to lead the Steelers to another Super Bowl in the process. Roethlisberger is the Steelers all-time leader for wins, passing TDs, pass attempts, completions, and passing yards. Yet, he continues to be ignored by pundits in the conversation of elite quarterbacks. He played every game last season behind a porous, banged-up offensive line. Face it, without Ben, the Steelers are no where near a playoff team. With Ben, they can go all the way to Phoenix.

    The Steelers and their black-n-gold bleeding fans hope that these 7 men have what it takes to get the Steelers that 7th Super Bowl victory. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!

   

THE BULLPEN

The crack of the bat, the thrill of the hit! Your Pittsburgh Pirates wrap up their series and their homestand tonight against the Atlanta Braves. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)Following last night's 11-3 drubbing at the hands of Atl, the Pirates have lost 7 in a row and are 2-8 in their last 10 games. Are the Bucs waving the white flag? Is this Collapse III? Mrs. Black-N-Gold is not giving up the ship. All hands on deck, Raise the Jolly Roger tonight! 2)In dropping the first 2 games of this series, the Pirates have been outscored, 18-6. I'll simplify these keys for the Pirates. Hit, Run, & Score! 3)RH Gerrit Cole looks to give the Pirates pitching staff a shot in the arm tonight as he returns from the DL. All aboard the Cole Train! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

One, two, three strikes, you're out! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series against the Atlanta Braves tonight at PNC Park. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates are mired in a season long 6-game losing streak following last night's 7-3 loss to the Braves. Gotta get this fixed and stop on #6! 2)Last night, the Bucs were a paltry 1 for 7 with runners in scoring position. They also hit 3 home runs, all of them solo. Get those Bucs on the pond and Hit, Run, & Score! 3)At one point, the Pirates were a season best 9 games over .500. They've now fallen to just 3 over. How about we start a WINNING streak?! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

We interrupt our regularly scheduling programming for a special announcement:

Have you seen me? Fans in Pittsburgh used to take me with them to PNC Park and wave me high into the Pittsburgh skyline after a Pirates win. For some reason, they don't do that anymore. They leave me to sit on the concrete with their empty beer cups and their smashed peanut shells. Oh, I don't blame the fans. It's the Pirates that don't give those fans the opportunity to wave me. Please, if you see me, please contact Mrs. Black-N-Gold at 1-800-PIRATES so she can take me off the side of her milk carton. RAISE IT! LET'S GO BUCS!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Root, root, root for the home team! Your Pittsburgh Pirates begin a crucial 3 game series tonight at PNC Park against their NL wildcard-rival Atlanta Braves. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)After getting swept in both Detroit and DC, the Pirates will try to halt their longest losing streak of the season at 5 games. Right the ship & Raise The Jolly Roger! 2)The Braves have lost 8 straight on the road. At 39-24, the Pirates have the best NL home record. #9 would be fine 'cause there's no place like home! 3)Atlanta will start RH Ervin Santana, 12-6, 3.66 ERA. In his last 6 starts, Santana is 5-0 with a 2.70 ERA. The Pirates will go with RH Vance Worley, 5-2, 2.51 ERA. Worley is looking to bounce back after allowing 5 runs, 3 earned, and 9 hits in 5 1/3 innings of an 8-4 loss at Detroit in his last start. Get back in the win column with some Hit, Run & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Hey batter, batter, batter! Your Pittsburgh Pirates finish up their series in the nation's capital today as they face the Washington Gnats. These are your keys to today's game. 1)After allowing the Gnats a come-from-behind 4-3 victory last night, the Pirates have lost 4 in a row and look to steal one in Washington to close out the series. Meanwhile, The Gnats go for a season best 6 wins in a row. Veto Washington! 2)The Pirates send RH Edinson Volquez, 10-7, 3.67 ERA, to the hill. Eddy has been steady, winning 6 of his last 7 starts. Right the ship! 3)The Gnats go with RH Doug Fister, 12-3, 2.34 ERA. In his last 7 starts, Fister is 6-1 with a 1.69 ERA. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD with a big dose of Hit, Run & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

Woop, woop, woop! It's time for another Standings Alert! The Pirates and St Louie lost last night, Cincy was postponed and Mil won again. the Bucs remain in 3rd place in the NL Central but are now 4.5 games out and fading fast. Where is the Jolly Roger when you need it? Also, both San Fran and Atl were winners. The Pirates are now on the outside of the NL Wildcard, looking in at .5 games back.

BLUES N'AT

    This weekend is the 45th anniversary of Woodstock, 3 Days of Peace & Music. Most people associate the music of Woodstock as hippy, dippy, trippy psychedelic music. In reality, blues left its footprint all over Woodstock.

    In between raindrops and dropped acid, there was music and in that music was the blues. They came from came from near and far and they trucked up to Yasgur's farm. It was 1969. Change was in the air and it was happening at Woodstock.  Performers such as Jimi Hendrix, Joe Cocker, Janis Joplin, Paul Butterfield Blues Band, Canned Heat, Santana and 10 Years After brought more than flowers in their hair and tie-dye on their backs. They brought the blues.

    19 year old Carlos Santana lead his band through a scorching "Soul Sacrifice". Canned Heat brought the "Woodstock Boogie". The Grateful Dead closed their set by turning on the crowd to Bobby "Blue" Bland's "Turn On Your Lovelight". Creedence Clearwater Revival performed a haunting version of Sreamin' Jay Hawkins' "I Put A Spell On You".

    Of course, some artist's sets were more colored in blues music, than others. Janis Joplin brought the Kozmic Blues Band with her. Joe Cocker  invited the crowd to "Let's Go Get Stoned", covering the popular Ray Charles hit. Alvin Lee with Ten Years After and Johnny Winter, both riveted the audience with their manic blues licks. And, of course, Jimi Hendrix brought down the stage for the throngs that stayed until that Monday morning to hear the frenetic fretwork of the guitar master.

    Sadly, many of these performers are no longer with us. They helped introduce blues music to an audience that may not have otherwise been exposed to the wonderful world of the blues. All that remains are the memories and the music.

    Until next time, boys and girls. Keep It Bluesy!

   

THE BULLPEN

Look at me, I can be in centerfield! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series in DC tonight as they face the Washington Gnats. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)With last night's 5-4 loss, the Pirates are an unimpressive 9 games under .500 on the road. The road weariers have lost 3 in a row on the road. Shut the door on #4, break out the Hit, Run, & Score! 2)The Pirates face RH Gio Gonzalez, 6-9, 4.00 ERA. Gonzalez has lost 4 straight. #5 would be great! 3)LH Jeff Locke, 4-3, 3.98 ERA, will go for he Buccos. Locke has won 2 in a row. If it's 3, it's for me, Lockedown the Gnats! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

Woop, woop, woop! Time for a Standings Alert! In the NL Central picture, the Pirates lost while Milwaukee, St Louie & Cincy all won. The Pirates are in 3rd place at 3.5 games out. In the NL Wildcard, the Pirates lost to the Gnats, Miami, LA & San Fran lost and Atl won. The Bucs are still the 2nd Wildcard team.

Raise the Jolly Roger tonight in DC!

THE BULLPEN

Put me in coach! Your Pittsburgh Pirates open a 3-game series tonight in the nation's capital as they battle the Washington Gnats. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Gnats have won 6 of their last 8. The Pirates are looking for the win column after dropping 2 straight to the Tigers. Swat the Gnats with a big can of Hit, Run, & Score! 2)Neil Walker's back? That's the rumor. He was in the on-deck circle in Detroit yesterday when the Pirates ran out of gas. Manager Clint Hurdle is hoping he can use Homeboy in more than a pinch-hitting role beginning tonight. Don't forget to bring the Jolly Roger with you, Homeboy! 3)The Pirates send RH Charlie Morton, 5-11, 3.62 ERA to the mound. The Gnats will go with RH Tanner Roark, 11-7, 2.86 ERA. In 5 of Roark's last 6 starts, he has held opponents to 1 run over 7 innings. Score early, score often, score BIG! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

We want a pitcher, not a belly-itcher! Your Pittsburgh Pirates close out their home-and-home series against the Motor City Kitties today in Detroit. These are your keys to this afternoon's game. 1)The Pirates will face Detroit RH Max Scherzer, 13-4, 3.13 ERA. Scherzer looks to become the AL's first 14-game winner. Knock him out with some Hit, Run & Score! 2)The Pirates start LH Francisco Liriano, 3-8, 3.82 ERA. Frankie has been filthy since the All-Star break, going 2-1 with a 1.69 ERA over 5 starts. Mow 'em down, Frankie! 3)The Tigers are going for their 5th win in a row at home. Tame these Tigers. Hoist the colors and raise the Jolly Roger! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

You gotta lose your mind in Detroit, Rock City! Your Pittsburgh Pirates take their show on the road for part II of their home-and-home series against the Detroit Tigers. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)Following last night's 4-2 Pirates win, the Tigers are losers of 4 in a row. #5 would not be jive! 2)The Pirates send RH Vance Worley, 5-1, 2.30 ERA to the hump. The Vanimal has been an animal since the All Star break, going 3-0 with a 0.96 ERA in 4 starts. Give 'em the bird, Worley! 3)The Tigers will go with rookie RH Buck Farmer, making his Major League debut. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD with lots o' Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Let's go, let's go, he can't hit, he can't hit! Your Pittsburgh Pirates close out their homestand tonight against the Detroit Tigers. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates powered their way to victory last night, 11-6 over Detroit. Every Pirates starter had at least one hit as they belted 8 extra-base hits and found the fence 4 times. Hits and wins are contagious. They're like pennant fever. Catch it! 2)The Tigers have been kittens of late, losing 5 of their last 6 contests and 9 of their last 11 on the road. They've lost 3 in a row. Give 'em #4 with the ol' Hit, Run, & Score! 3)The Kitties will send rookie LH Robbie Ray, 1-1, 4.70 ERA, to the mound. The Pirates will counter with RH Edinson Volquez, 9-7, 3.70 ERA. In 12 starts this season, rookie pitchers are 1-5 with a 3.48 ERA against the Bucs. Last time out, Steady Eddy held Miami to 1 hit and 3 walks in 7 innings in a 7-2 win. Catch these Tigers by the tail! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Root, root, root for the home team! Your Pittsburgh Pirates begin a 2-game set tonight versus the Detroit Tigers. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates failed to win another home series against San Diego following yesterday's 8-2 loss. During the 3-game series, the Pirates only scored a total of 5 runs. Put the Bucs on the board! 2)The Motor City Kitties are coming off back-to-back games in which their bullpen blew leads. Yesterday, Detroit had a 5-0 lead over Toronto only to have the Blue Jays win 6-5 in 19 innings. These Kittens will be weary. Kick 'em while they're down with a big bowl of Hit, Run & Score! 3)Detroit will start RH Justin Verlander, 10-10, 4.57 ERA. The Pirates will attack with LH Jeff Locke, 3-3, 3.78 ERA. Verlander, the former Cy Young winner is 14-0 with a 2.24 ERA in his last 16 regular season interleague starts. Say "Sayonara" to Cy Young! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Hey batter, batter, batter! Your Pittsburgh Pirates close out their series with the San Diego Pardres this afternoon at PNC Park. These are your keys to today's game. 1)Following last night's 2-1 loss, Mrs. Black-N-Gold has some good news and some bad news. The good news is that through the first 2 games of this series, the Bucs have held the Padres to just 3 runs. Although, that's not saying much against one of the worst offenses in the Majors. The bad news is, the Pirates have only been able to score 3 runs, also. Last night, they were 1 for 8 with runners in scoring position and left 8 men on base. This was against a pitcher who hadn't won on the road all season. Not good stuff, Bucs. Score early, score often, score BIG! 2)A win today would give the Pirates their first series win over San Diego since PNC Park's inception. The Pirates are the best home team in the NL. Love that home cookin'! 3)San Diego starts RH Tyson Ross, 10-10, 2.62 ERA. In 2 career starts against the Pirates, Ross is 0-1 with a 4.05 ERA. The Pirates will send RH Charlie Morton, 5-10, 3.43 ERA, to the mound. In 4 starts versus San Diego, Ground Chuck is 3-0 with a 1.78 ERA. Hoist the colors today. Raise the Jolly Roger with some Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Look at me, I can be in centerfield! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series with the San Diego Padres tonight at PNC Park. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)With last night's 2-1, series-opening win over San Diego, the Bucs have won 11 of their last 13 games at the friendly confines of PNC Park and 3 straight. Get win #4 with more Hit, Run & Score! 2)The Pirates have the best home record in the NL at 37-22. There's no place like home! 3)San Diego starts LH Eric Stults, 4-13, 4.94 ERA. The Pirates go with LH Francisco Liriano, 3-7, 3.91 ERA. Frankie has been filthy since the All-Star break, going 2-0 with a 1.44 ERA and 29 Ks through 25 innings in 4 starts. Meanwhile, the Pirates continue to scuffle against lefties. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

The crack of the bat, the thrill of the hit! Your Pittsburgh Pirates open up a 3 game series tonight at PNC Park as they battle the San Diego Padres. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)After taking the Marlins series with last night's 7-2 win and winning 2 straight, the Bucs look to make it 3 in a row tonight. If it's 3, it's for me! 2)The Pirates send RH Vance Worley, 4-1, 2.43 ERA to the mound. Worley is 2-0 with a 0.86 ERA in his last 3 starts. Give 'em the bird, Worley! 3)The Padres will start RH Ian Kennedy, 8-9, 3.59 ERA. Kennedy is 0-2 with a 12.91 ERA in his last 2 starts at PNC. Score early, score often, score BIG with lots o' Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

I don't care if I ever get back! Your Pittsburgh Pirates wrap up their 3-game set with the Miami Marlins tonight at PNC Park. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)With last night's 7-3 victory, the Pirates can take the series with another win tonight. That's what I'm talkin' 'bout! 2)The Fish will send LH Brian Flynn, 0-0, 6.00 ERA to the hill. It will be Flynn's first start of the season. The Pirates typically have troubles hitting lefties. They hope to turn their luck around in support of RH Edinson Volquez, 8-7, 3.91 ERA. Eddy has been steady against Miami. In 6 career starts he is 5-0 with a 1.95 ERA. Sink the Fish! 3)Pirates CF Andrew McCutchen missed another game last night as did 2B Neil Walker and 3B Pedro Alvarez. Cutch is day-to-day. Walker is expected back in the lineup tonight. Pedro is still on bereavement. Meanwhile, UT Josh Harrison has continued to step up in a big way. JHay is riding a 10-game hitting streak with a .455 BA & 12 extra-base hits. He went 3 for 4 last night and is 9 for 17 versus Miami this season. Whaddaya say we help JHay? Break out the Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

We want a pitcher, not a belly-itcher! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series against the Miami Marlins tonight at PNC Park. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates try to bounce back from last night's 6-3, opening-series loss. The Buccos pitchers didn't help matter, issuing 8 walks. You can't give out any free passes. Do not pass Go, do not collect $200! 2)The Marlins have won 7 of their load 8 road contests. Make these road warriors, road worriers with plenty of Hit, Run, & Score! 3)The Fish will go with RH Tom Koehler, 7-8, 3.70 ERA. The Pirates will have LH Jeff Locke, 2-3, 3.72 ERA on the mound. In Koehler's last 7 road starts, his ERA is a heft 5.79. Locke took the loss his last time out, 7-4 at Arizona, surrendering 6 runs, 4 earned, in 5 1/3 innings. Locke and load tonight! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Take me out to the ballgame! Your Pittsburgh Pirates return home to PNC Park where they begin a 3-game series tonight with the Miami Marlins. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)Looking over the box score from Sunday's 10-inning 3-2 heartbreaker, the Pirates were 0 for 10 with runners in scoring position. You can't leave ducks or Bucs on the pond and expect to win ballgames. Get those Bucs on the board! 2)Miami has lost 5 in a row in Pittsburgh. The Pirates have won 14 of their last 17 at the friendly confines of PNC Park. There's no place like home! 3)The Fish will start LH Brad Hand, 2-3, 4.15 ERA. In his last start, a 4-3 loss to Washington, Hand yielded 3 runs over 7 innings. The Pirates will counter with RH Charlie Morton, 5-10, 3.54 ERA. Ground Chuck is 3-1 with a 1.36 ERA in his past 6 home starts. Help Ground Chuck grind 'em up with lots o' Hit, Run & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

BLUES N'AT

    This Friday, August 8, blues fans will have the good fortune to see one of the most dynamic acts touring the world today as Robert Randolph and the Family Band headline the Heritage Music BluesFest.

     Robert Randolph was born and raised in Irvington, NJ. He became educated with the pedal steal guitar in the House of God Church. Robert continues to incorporate gospel music into the mix of the blues, rock, funk jam that has been wowing audiences across the land. No matter how far from home he's gotten, Robert has never forgotten his roots. He plans to open the Robert Randolph Music & Arts Program in his home town to give others the opportunity to expand their musical horizons as he and his siblings have. As a matter of fact, some of Robert's siblings keep it in the "Family" as they're members of the Family Band.

     Robert and the band put themselves on the secular music map with 2002's "Live at the Wetlands". The album captures the essence of the band in their natural habitat, on the stage. They have a growing reputation as a "must see" live act. They have played on the "Late Show with David Letterman" and have shared stages with artists such as Buddy Guy, the Dave Matthews Band, Eric Clapton, the Allman Brothers Band and the North Mississippi Allstars. During their live shows, the band members are known to switch instruments with one and other. Robert also likes to dance while playing and encourages audience participation as he invites members of the audience to shake their hips on the stage.

      They have thrilled music lovers at the Crossroads Guitar Festival as well as at the Bonnaroo Music Festival. Robert has also been honored by Rolling Stone Magazine. He was ranked #97 on the 2003 list of "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time".

        Robert Randolph will be pulling into Wheeling, WV on Friday as they support their latest release on Blue Note Records, "Lickety Split". You'd better get there "lickety split", if you want to get on stage with Robert and "Shake Your Hips".

       Until next time, boys and girls. Keep It Bluesy!


       

THE BULLPEN

Rounding third and heading for home! Your Pittsburgh Pirates wrap up their road trip this afternoon as they face the Arizona D-Bags in the desert. These are your keys to today's game. 1)With last night's 8-3 victory, the Pirates have scored 17 runs in their last 2 games as they go for win #3 out of 4. Get some more with the Hit, Run, & Score! 2)The Pirates send LH Francisco Liriano, 3-7, 3.97 ERA, to the mound. Frankie was filthy in his last start, striking out 11 batters in a 3-1 win over San Fran. Mow 'em down, Filthy Frankie! 3)AZ will start RH Trevor Cahill, 1-8, 5.59 ERA. Since his recall July 14, Cahill has gone 0-2 with a 5.40 ERA in 3 starts. Typically the Pirates get snake bitten by below averages pitchers such as this. Put the bite on Cahill! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Look at me, I can be in centerfield! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series in the sun as they battle the Arizona D-Bags tonight. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates came back from 4-0 to win last night, 9-4 on 13 hits. It was the Bucs 27th come-from-behind win of the season. It's not over till the fat lady sings! 2)The Pirates send RH Vance Worley, 4-1, 2.54 ERA, to the mound. The Worley Bird's last start was a 5-0, complete game shutout of San Fran. Shut 'em down and give 'em the Bird! 3)Arizona will counter with RH Chase Anderson, 6-4, 3.34 ERA. Anderson was Chased after 3 2/3 innings in Pittsburgh on July 2, surrendering 3 runs on 8 hits and 3 walks in a 5-1 AZ loss. Chase him again with the Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

You got a beat up glove, a homemade bat, and a brand new pair of shoes! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their journey through the desert as they battle the AZ D-Bags tonight. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)With last night's 7-4 defeat, the Pirates have lost 2 straight. Will they make it 3 in a row? I say No, No, No! 2)The D-Bags will start LH Vidal Nuno, 2-7, 4.97 ERA. AZ has lost all 4 of Nuno's starts since picking him up from the Yankees. Don't be jive, give them loss #5! 3)The Pirates send RH Edinson Volquez,, 8-7, 3.87 ERA to the hump. In his last 6 starts vs. AZ, Eddy is 2-1 with a 3.26 ERA. Help keep Eddy steady. Break out the Jolly Roger and the Hit, Run & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!