THE BULLPEN

     One, two, three strikes, you're out! Your Pittsburgh Pirates begin their final series of the regular season tonight as they face the Cincy Reds at PNC Park. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)To quote the legendary thespian John Belushi in the cinematic masterpiece Animal House, "Nothing is over until we decide it is." It wasn't over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor and it's not over now. The Pirates still have something to play for as their magic number to clinch home field for the Wild Card is 2. They can't depend on anyone but themselves as they begin this 3 game series with Cincy. Take care of business! 2)Cincy starts rookie RH Keyvius Sampson, 2-6, 6.46 ERA. He's lost both of his starts against the Bucs while carrying a 6.97 ERA against them. Give him more Hit, Run, & Score! 3)The Buccos go with LH Francisco Liriano, 12-7, 3.27 ERA. A W would give the Pirates 16 wins in Frankie's last 17 starts. Cincy has lost 12 straight but are 10-6 vs the Pirates this year. Give 'em L, Frankie! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!