THE BULLPEN

     Back to that same old place, sweet home Chicago! Our Pittsburgh Pirates wrap up their road trip tonight in Chicago when they face the Cubs at the not-so-Friendly Confines. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Deja vu again. How many times have we been here this season? How many times have the Pirates gone into the final game of a series and we're hoping they can, at least, salvage 1 win? Too many times to count, that's for sure, especially against the Cubs. Following last night's latest loss, 3-0, the Bucs are just 1-7 at Wrigley this season. Are they on a Milwaukee-like losing streak? Maybe not but you IF they make the playoffs, and that's a BIG IF, they'l face the Cubs at Wrigley. Better to get the monkey off your back now. Get in the win column and raise the Jolly Roger! 2)The Pirates better right the ship and they'd better do it quick. They're 2.5 back of St Louie for the 2nd wild card. And, oh look, the Mets are right there with them. The Marlins are just 3.5 out. Time to break out all the Pirates cliches. All hands on deck. Full speed ahead. Hit, Run, & Score! 3)RH Ryan Vogelsong, 3-3, 3.02 ERA goes for the Buccos. He'll face Cubs RH Jason Hammel, 13-7, 3.21 ERA. Hammer Hammel! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Oh, baby don't you wanna go! Our Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series in Chicago tonight when they battle the Cubs. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)All good things must come to an end and the Buccos winning streak is no exception. Our favorite Black-N-Gold Baseball Team fell last night to the Cubs in the opener, 8-7 in 13 innings. The Boys of Summer had a 6-3 lead, at one point. Unfortunately, the usually-reliable bullpen surrendered 5 runs as the Bucs fell to the NL Central leaders. You got to know when to hold 'em! 2)The Cubs send RH Kyle Hendricks, 12-7, 2.19 ERA to the hump. In his last 13 games (12 starts), Hendricks is 8-1 with a 1.38 ERA. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD; Hit, Run & Score! 3)The Pirates start RH Chad Kuhl, 3-1, 3,50 ERA. Keep cool and raise the Jolly Roger! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Chicago, Chicago, that toddlin' town! Our Pittsburgh Pirates take their show on the road to Chicago tonight when they clash with the NL Central-leading Cubs. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pirates come into Chicago hot on the heals of their 1st-ever 4-game sweep in Milwaukee. Win, raise, repeat! 2)With yesterday's 3-1 win, the Bucs have won 4 straight. Keep the drive alive with win #5! 3)The victory in Milwaukee was fueled by the long ball with solo homers from 1B John Jaso, RF Gregory Polanco and LF Starling Marte. Chicks dig the long ball! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS

     Start spreading the news! Mrs. Black-N-Gold has all the latest happenings on our Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers and Penguins for you. That's right, Black-N-Gold Nation. Mrs. Black-N-Gold has the newest edition of The Black-N-Gold News.


                                              THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS

PIRATES

Hot on the heals of a successful west coast road trip, our Pirates returned home for a crucial homestand at the friendly confines of PNC Park. PNC proved to be not-so-friendly as the homestand sucked out loud. 

Speaking of sucking, RH Gerrit Cole continues to confuse Black-N-Gold Nation with his horrible performance this season. He was shellacked by the Miami Marlins in the 1st game of a big 3-game series last Friday night. The Bucs fell to the Fish 6-5. 

Prior to Saturday's game, the Buccos placed 3B Jung Ho Kang on the 15 day DL with a shoulder injury that was suffered the night before. In his place, the Pirates recalled 1B/OF Josh Bell. You read that right. Josh Bell is finally free. 

It didn't help matters. The Pirates lost again to Miami in a 3-1 decision. To add insult to injury, the Marlins took Sunday's game 3-2 to sweep their way out of Pittsburgh and overtake the Bucs in the wild card standings. 

Some good news came on Monday afternoon. The team announced that INF David Freese was signed to a 2 year contract extension with a club option for 2019. Looks like our favorite Black-N-Gold Baseball Team will have a deep Freese for the next few years. 

Unfortunately, Mr. Freese wasn't able to parlay that into a Pirates win. He ran them out of a 9th inning rally in game #1 of their series with the Astros. The Pirates losses mounted in the 3-1 contest. Any Pirates pitcher not named Cole has looked excellent, of late. It's the offense that was a black mark on this homestand. That wasn't the case in Tuesday's matchup with Houston. RH Ivan Nova tossed his 1st complete game in Black-N-Gold and 2 homers from OF Gregory Polanco led the offensive attack in a 7-1 victory. Things were finally looking up for the Bucs going into Wednesday's finale. Then, young Mr. Cole took the mound again. Cole's season of ineffectiveness continued in a 5-4 loss to Houston. 

Last week, the Pirates were riding high and within reach of the 2nd wild card spot with a 5-1 road trip. This week, they returned home and played pitifully in a 1-5 stretch. It doesn't get any easier. The Pirates are in Milwaukee for 4 games against the Brewers. We all know about the Bucs woes at Miller Park. They were able to get off the schneid for this series, taking the 1st game in a 3-2 10-inning affair. Friday night's game found the Bucs in the win column again, 5-3. This one was powered by SS Jordy Mercer's 1st career grand slam, a day before his 30th birthday, no less. Congrats, Jordy! The Bucs made it 3 in a row over the Brewers with last night's come-from-behind 9-6 win. 

Before yesterday's game, the Bucs announced that Cole will miss his scheduled start Monday in Chicago. He's been sent to Los Angeles to have his right elbow examined. Fingers crossed it's not ligament damage. 

St Louie and Miami were both losers last night. The Pirates are now tied with the Marlins at 1.5 games back for the 2nd wild card spot. 

 From there they go to Wrigley to clash with the Cubs for 3 games beginning Monday. Time is running out.  Make them count. You gotta win to get in. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

STEELERS

Our Steelers made the news both on the field and off this past week. 

LB James Harrison acquiesced and met with the NFL over bogus PED allegations. Deebo was going to meet with officials on August 29, then August 30, but it was changed to August 25. The meeting lasted about 45 minutes. No word on the outcome of this sit-down, thus far. 

The Steelers played their interstate rivals, the Philly Eagles last Thursday night. They were shutout by Philly 17-0. Their preseason record is now 0-2. Again, we all know these games don't count, so please, don't press the Black-N-Gold Panic Button. 

Good news for RB Le'Veon Bell. His suspension was appealed and reduced from 4 games to 3. Now lay off the weed. 

Our favorite Black-N-Gold Football Team hosted a visit from a former player this week. Free agent CB Keenan Lewis was in town to see if he could again catch on with the Steelers. There was a rumor going around that he would, indeed, return to Pittsburgh but nothing is official, as of yet. 

The Steelers did officially sign LB Vince Williams to a new contract. Vinny Vin received a 3 year deal. 

Could the Steelers be making room to bring Lewis back into the fold? Either that or they're looking at locking up some of their own potential free agents as they've started restructuring contracts. Both T Marcus Gilbert and S Mike Mitchell had their deals re-done, creating about $7 million in cap space.

Friday night saw the Steelers go marching into New Orleans to face the Saints. It also saw many starters finally get some playing time. That strategy paid off. The Steelers won their 1st preseason game 27-14. DL Cam Heyward was a casualty of this game with a high ankle sprain. He expects that he'll be ready to go for the season opener. Time will tell.

The Steelers wrap up the exhibition games this Thursday in Carolina. The real games start on September 12, Monday Night Football when the Steelers kickoff the season in Washington. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!

PENGUINS

It's still the Summer of Stanley but our Penguins managed to make some news this week. The Pens whiffed on free agent F Jimmy Vesey. The youngster decided to take his talents to the NY Rangers. However, our favorite Black-N-Gold Hockey Team did sign another college free agent this week, C Thomas Di Pauli from Notre Dame. His former teammate at ND, Pens F Bryan Rust had nothing but good things to say about the new Penguin. Welcome, Thomas! 

And congrats to Pens C Sidney Crosby! Sid was named captain of Team Canada in the World Cup of Hockey. It's all fun and games so long as no one gets hurt. Stay healthy for when the games really count. Let's Go Pens!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Sunday, Monday, happy days! Our Pittsburgh Pirates wrap up their series in Milwaukee this afternoon against the Brewers. These are your keys for today's game. 1)Raise It! The Pirates found the win column in Milwaukee for the 3rd straight night. This one was a come-from-behind, 12-hit attack in the 9-6 victory. Tomorrow they go for the sweep. Break out the brooms! 2)RH Ivan Nova, 3-0, 3.20 ERA goes for the Buccos. The Pirates have won all 4 of Ivan's starts for the Black-N-Gold. Be super, Nova! 3)He'll face Milwaukee RH Chase Anderson, 7-10, 4.99 ERA. Chase chase with some more Hit, Run & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Saturday what a day, rockin' all week with you! Our Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series in Milwaukee tonight when the try to best the Brewers. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Break up the Bucs. With last night's 5-3 victory, the Pirates have now won 2 straight. If it's 3 it's for me in Milwaukee! 2)The Pirates pulled out the win on the strength of SS Jordy Mercer's 1st career grand slam. Chicks dig the long ball! 3)RH Jameson Taillon, 3-3, 2.92 ERA will start for the Bucs. The Brewers have RH Jimmy Nelson, 7-13, 4.26 ERA, on the bump. Score early, score often, score BIG; Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Thursday, Friday, Happy Days! Our Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series in Milwaukee tonight when they battle the Brewers. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)With last night's 3-2 win in 10 innings the Pirates finally, finally, FINALLY raised the Jolly Roger in Milwaukee. Thanks to Cutch (3 RBI) and Kuhl (2 runs in 6 1/3 innings) that's the 1st time in the last 10 games at Miller Park the Bucs raised it. Keep cool and win ballgames! 2)RH Ryan Vogelsong, 2-3, 2.98 ERA goes for the Buccos. He'll face Milwaukee RH Matt Garza, 4-5, 5.27 ERA. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD; Hit, Run & Score! 3)Yes, the Pirates broke the streak. Now it's time to streak in the other direction, a WINNING streak, that is. Keep on BUCN! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Sunday, Monday, happy days! Our Pittsburgh Pirates try to exorcise some demons tonight when they open a 4-game set with the Brewers in (gasp!) Milwaukee. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)On the heals of their 5-1 west coast road trip, the Pirates returned home to go just 1-5 in front of the home crowd. They truly do take 1 step forward, 2 steps back. Go foward, move ahead! 2)Since 2007, the Pirates are a putrid 17-54 at Milwaukee's Miller Park, losing 9 straight. They've got to turn things around in a hurry. There's always room for more Hit, Run & Score! 3)Rookie RH Chad Kuhl, 3-1, 3.62 ERA will be on the bump for the Bucs. He'll face Brewers RH Wily Peralta, 5-9, 6.00 ERA. Keep cool and raise the Jolly Roger! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Buy me some peanuts and crackerjacks! Our Pittsburgh Pirates wrap up their series with the Houston Astros with a matinee today at PNC Park. These are your keys for today's game. 1)Finally, finally, FINALLY the Buccos raised the Jolly Roger, winning last night's contest 7-1. It was a complete game victory for RH Ivan Nova that was powered by 2 homers from LF Gregory Polanco. Keep on BUCN! 2)Houston starts RH Colin McHugh, 7-10, 4.99 ERA. He'll face Pirates RH Gerrit Cole, 7-8, 3.30 ERA. Cole may want to take note. Nova surrendered just 1 walk in last night's game. That's the 1st walk Nova has allowed since donning the Black-N-Gold. The free pass will bite you in the a$$. Keep them off the basepaths! 3)The Pirates look to make some homemade meatloaf today 'cause 2 outta 3 ain't bad. What's the best recipe for Mrs. Black-N-Gold's Meatloaf? Hit, Run & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     There's no crying in baseball! Our Pittsburgh Pirates continue their interleague series tonight at PNC Park with the Houston Astros. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pirates lowered the Jolly Roger for the 4th consecutive game following last night's 3-1 loss. In those losses, they've scored 9 runs total and 5 of those came in Friday's loss. It's a shame to have no game. You gotta have more Hit, Run, & Score! 2)As the Bucs' ship continues to sink, their season is on the brink. Stop SUCKN and start BUCN! 3)Rookie RH Joe Musgrove, 1-1, 4.18 ERA will start for the 'Stros. The Bucs will have RH Ivan Nova, 9-6, 4.83 ERA, on the bump. Mrs. Black-N-Gold is tired of hearing how Nova is a ground ball pitcher. Lately he's looked like the 2nd coming of Jon Niese, all talk of ground ball but plenty of gopher ball action. Keep the ball in the park and a W in the win column! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it; it's the hard that makes it great! Our Pittsburgh Pirates close out interleague play with a 3-game series beginning tonight against the Houston Astros at PNC Park. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Marlins came into Pittsburgh this weekend and cleaned house. The Bucs have lost 3 straight. #4 would not be great! 2)In the last 2 games, the Pirates have only put 3 runs on the board. We want more Hit, Run, & Score! 3)Following this lost weekend at home, the Buccos are sinking like a stone. They are now 3 games out of the 2nd wild card position. They have to go over Miami to get to St Louie. You gotta want it, to win it! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Funny, you like samurai swords....I like baseball! Our Pittsburgh Pirates wrap up their series this afternoon with the Miami Marlins at PNC Park. These are your keys for today's game. 1)Someone throw the Pirates a life-preserver because they're sinking fast. They are now 2 games behind for the 2nd wild card spot and have allowed the Marlins to get ahead of them at just 1.5 games back. This is thanks to dropping the 1st 2 games of this series to the Fish. They try to salvage a W today. Set sail for the win column! 2)Last night's lackluster performance didn't help matters. They only managed 1 run in a 3-1 loss on 4 hits and 2B Josh Harrison had 3 of them. We need alot more Hit, Run & Score! 3)We'll see if the rain can hold off today and they get this game in the books. Rain, rain, go away, the Buccos need a win today! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Root, root, root for the home team! Our Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series with the Miami Marlins tonight at PNC Park. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Ouch! Last night's 6-5 loss to the Fish is one that got away. Miami handed the Bucs the win on a few occasions but the Pirates gave it right back to them. This game had it all, good and bad. The Buccos flashed some good leather but in the end the defense failed them. They plated 5 runs on 12 hits but the game ended on a double play with the bases loaded and 1 away. There's always room for more Hit, Run & Score! 2)The bullpen got a workout last night and did not look good in the process. Putting runners on base is not a good way to hold a game. Runners on the basepaths will bite you in the a$$. You got to know when to hold 'em! 3)The Pirates loss, coupled with a St Louie win and the Marlins win, puts the Black-N-Gold 2 games out for the 2nd wild card. Miami is right behind at 2.5. Miami starts RH David Phelps, 6-6, 2.48 ERA. The Bucs have RH Chad Kuhl, 3-0, 3.73 ERA on the bump. Keep cool and find the win column. Raise the Jolly Roger! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Take me out to the ballgame! That's right, Black-N-Gold Nation. Mrs. Black-N-Gold and Brother Black-N-Gold will be representing tonight when our Pittsburgh Pirates matchup with the Miami Marlins at PNC Park. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pirates return home from a wonderful west coast road trip where they went 5-1. They've won 4 in a row. Keep the drive alive with win #5! 2)During the win streak, the Bucs have put 29 runs on the scoreboard. We'll take more Hit, Run & Score! 3)Miami starts RH Tom Koehler, 9-8, 3.86 ERA. The Pirates counter with RH Gerrit Cole, 7-8, 3.25 ERA. Cole needs to get on the winning track and be the Ace that sets the pace. It's time to ride the Cole Train to a win! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS

     What's the news across Black-N-Gold Nation? Mrs. Black-N-Gold has the information with the latest on our favorite Black-N-Gold Teams, the Pirates, Steelers and Penguins. Without further adieu, here is The Black-N-Gold News.


                                          THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS 

PIRATES

Our Pirates seem to be sailing towards the win column more often this week, giving their playoff push a boast. Of course, the usual shuffling of the roster went down, as well. 

The Pirates recalled RH Chad Kuhl from Triple A Indy. RH Curtis Partch went back to Indianapolis in his place. 

The move paid off. The Pirates took the opener of their 3-game series against the San Diego Padres 6-4. It was announced that RH Wildredo Boscan was claimed off waivers by the Atlanta Braves prior to the 2nd game of the set. The Padres blanked the Bucs 4-0. C Francisco Cervelli had to leave the game. His left wrist (the same as his broken hamate bone) was bothering him and effected his play. The Buccos answered that loss the next day, shutting out San Diego 4-0 to take the series. 

Our favorite Black-N-Gold Baseball Team was on the move from there. They traveled to the west coast and opened a 3-game series with the Dodgers in LA last Friday night. The Pirates dumped the Dodgers 5-1. Game 2 didn't go so well for the Bucs. They left a team record-tying 18 men on base on the way to a 8-4 defeat. LF Starling Marte left the game with upper back pain. The Buccos bounced back in the rubber game, downing the Dodgers 11-3 to take another series. 

The Bucs traveled up the coast for a 3-game set in San Fran versus the Giants. RH Ryan Vogelsong didn't have his best stuff but got the win in game 1, returning to face the team he played with for 5 seasons. RF Gregory Polanco drove in 4 runs in the Pirates 8-5 victory. The Buccos took the 2nd game of the series, 4-3, in a back-and-forth battle. The Bucs completed the San Francisco Sweep in yesterday's come-from-behind 6-5 win. 

They return home tomorrow night in a 3-game matchup with the Miami Marlins. Both teams are fighting for that all-important 2nd wild card spot. Lucky for the Pirates, Miami won't have RF Giancarlo Stanton in the lineup. He's expected to miss the rest of the year with an injury. Also, RH Jose Fernandez started last night's game against Cincy so the Bucs won't have to worry about facing the fireballer. Mrs. Black-N-Gold and Brother Black-N-Gold will be in attendance on Friday night to cheer on RH Gerrit Cole and help him get back on the winning track. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

STEELERS

Our Steelers continued to prepare for their 1st preseason game as they get ready for the coming season. We knew our favorite Black-N-Gold Football Team wouldn't be able to dodge the injury bug for long, didn't we? CB Senquez Golson had surgery to repair the Lisfranc injury to his foot. Also, it seems that the reason free agent signee, TE Ladarius Green has been on the PUP list isn't the ankle that had surgery this offseason. There's a rumor going 'round that the former San Diego Charger has been experiencing post concussion issues. He suffered 2 concussions last season. The rumor mill also reports that Green is mulling retirement due to the symptoms. The Steelers offense is behind the 8-ball as it is with WR Martavis Bryant suspended for the season and RB Le'Veon Bell looking at a 4-game suspension himself. The Steelers may want to make a decision on Green, if he can't make one for himself. They could cut their loses and cut the player. Whatever they do, they'd better do it quick. The regular season is right around the corner. 

Speaking of suspensions, NFL Commissioner Roger Goddell is threatening Steelers LB James Harrison with one. Harrison's name was linked to a bogus report on PED use back in December. He, along with Green Bay LBs Clay Matthews and Julius Peppers are to interview with the Commish's lackeys by August 25 or face indefinite suspension effective August 26. The NFLPA is urging the players to not cooperate in the investigation as the league has no right to question the players based on a phony report. 

The preseason kicked off last Friday night against the Detroit Lions at Heinz Field. The Steelers fell to the Lions in unspectacular fashion, 30-17. QB Bruce Gradkowski left the game with a hamstring injury. Coach Mike Tomlin didn't not give an update for Gradkowski's status at his last St. Vincent press conference on Tuesday, only saying that he is expected to miss up to several weeks.

The team broke camp Tuesday and will practice at their facilities on the South Side from now on. Tonight they battle their interstate rivals, the Philly Eagles, in a preseason matchup at Heinz Field. Get all those fumbles, penalties, missed tackles and losses out of the way. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!

PENGUINS

Our Pens made some news this week when they welcomed back C Matt Cullen on a 1 year deal. The former free agent had been up in the are about his status. The 39 year old was either going to return to Pittsburgh, sign with the Minnesota Wild (he's a native Minnesotian) or retire. He made the right choice. Welcome back, Matt!

More free agent news for our favorite Black-N-Gold Hockey Team. The Pens are said to be making a run at F Jimmy Vesey. The 23-year-old was a Hobey Baker Award winner at Harvard. The Pens aren't the only team in the mix for the youngster but GM Jim Rutherford feels they have the cap space available to make this signing happen. Mrs. Black-N-Gold will keep you posted.

In the meantime, while we wait for the puck to drop and the banner to be raised, a World Cup of Hockey pre-tournament doubleheader has been scheduled to make its way to Consol Energy Center. The games will be played on September 14. It's a good way to see how our boys are doing. It's also a good way to get a bead on the competition for the coming season. Let's Go Pens!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     What a long, strange trip it's been! Our Pittsburgh Pirates close out their road trip this afternoon when they square off against the San Fran Giants. These are your key's for today's game. 1)More late night BUCN happened last night with the Pirates 4-3 win. The Bucs have won 8 of 11 and look to clean house this afternoon. Break out the brooms; how sweep it is! 2)In the past 6 games, the Buccos have put 4 or more runs on the board per game. We want more Hit, Run & Score! 3)Pirates RH Ivan Nova, 2-0, 2.92 ERA faces San Fran RH Matt Cain, 4-7, 5.47 ERA. Que the Nova-Cain marquee. Be Super, Nova! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     I left my heart in San Francisco! Our Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series in San Fran tonight when they go against the Giants. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)More late night BUCN happened last night when the Pirates sacked San Fran 8-5 on 12 hits, including a 2 run homer from RF Gregory Polanco who had 4 RBIs in the win. The hits just keep on coming. We want more Hit, Run & Score! 2)The Bucs have won 2 straight. If it's 3, it's for me! 3)RH Jameson Taillon, 3-2, 2.85 ERA goes for the Buccos. He'll face the Pirates old nemesis, RH Jeff Samardzija, 10-8, 4.23 ERA. Samardzija is typically a thorn in our Black-N-Gold side. Jamo has looked every bit as good as a #2 overall pick. Something's got to give. Let your freak flag fly in 'Frisco. Raise the Jolly Roger! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Are you going to San Francisco? Our Pittsburgh Pirates continue their west cost road trip tonight in San Francisco when the square off against the Giants. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)After leaving 18 men on base in Saturday's loss, the Pirates plated 11 runs on 16 hits en route to an 11-3 victory. 3 of those hits, from Jordy Mercer, Sean Rodriguez and Jung Ho Kang, left the yard. Chicks dig the long ball! 2)With the win the Pirates have won 3 straight series. Get series #4. Hit, Run & Score! 3)This will be an emotional game for Bucs starter, RH Ryan Vogelsong, tonight. Vogey was an All-Star and won 2 World Series during his stint with San Fran. Vogey is 1-2 with a 2.67 ERA. He'll face San Fran LH Matt Moore, 0-1, 3.00 ERA. Vogey has looked good since his return from the DL but he hasn't gotten much run support. If you can't be an athlete, be an athletic supporter! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     There is no joy in Mudville! Our Pittsburgh Pirates close out their series in Los Angeles with another matinee versus the Dodgers. These are your keys for today's game. 1)The Pirates put on a pitiful display yesterday in an 8-4 loss. The Dodgers walked 11 Bucco batters but our favorite Black-N-Gold Baseball team still managed to go only 1 for 14 with runners in scoring position and leave 18 men on base. That just won't do. Bring the Hit, Run & Score! 2)In yesterday's keys to the game, Mrs. Black-N-Gold praised the revamped pitching staff of the Pirates. So much for that. Although they didn't walk a batter, the Bucs gave up a season-high 17 hits while the defense committed 3 errors. Keep the runners off the basepaths. It's as easy as 1-2-3! 3)The Pirates start RH Chad Kuhl, 2-1, 3.91 ERA. He'll face LA LH Brett Anderson, making his season debut. The Bucs have won all 5 of Kuhl's starts. That's cool. Get your kicks with win #6! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     One, two, three strikes, you're out! Our Pittsburgh Pirates continue the west coast swing today with a matinee in LA versus the Dodgers. These are your keys for today's game. 1)With last night's 5-1 win Pirates pitchers have surrendered just 1 run in the last 2 games. Since the trade deadline, the staff, overall, has really improved. Whether we liked the deadline deals GM Neal Huntington made or not, it seems the Bucs have finally got the staff on track. Now if only today's starter, RH Gerrit Cole, could follow suit. Not too long ago, Mrs. Black-N-Gold went on a rant, chiding the de facto ace of starters to step up his game and pitch like an ace. Cole promptly went out and tossed his 1st career complete game. Since then, he's gotten off track again. Time to get back on the winning track. Hop aboard the Cole Train for a win! 2)The hit or miss offense seems to finally be on the stick, including much-maligned CF Andrew McCutchen. The Bucs bats have scored 9 runs in the past 2 games. There's always room for more Hit, Run & Score! 3)Don't look now but the Pirates are now just 1 game out for the 2nd wild card spot in the standings. You gotta win to get in! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

   Play ball! Our Pittsburgh Pirates take their show on the road to the west coast where they begin a 3-game series tonight in LA versus the Dodgers. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Back in June, the Bucs took 3 of 4 at home from the Dodgers. Since 2014, the Pirates are 13-4 versus LA. Get some more. Hit, Run & Score! 2)RH Ivan Nova, 8-6, 4.83 ERA goes for the Buccos. He'll face LA RH Ross Stripling, 3-3, 3.79 ERA. In Nova's first start in Black-N-Gold, the former Yankee went 7 innings, giving up 3 runs on 6 hits, striking out 5 and allowing no walks. He picked up the win in the 5-3 contest over Cincy. Do it again. Be a Super Nova! 3)The Pirates leap-frogged the New York Mets yesterday to move to within 2 games of the 2nd wild card spot. The Dodgers are 1 game out in the NL west and hold the top wild card spot, up 4 games. After a 4-2 homestand, the Pirates need to start stacking wins and moving on up in the wild card standings. Gimme a W! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Let's play two! Our Pittsburgh Pirates wrap up their series with the San Diego Padres this afternoon at PNC Park. These are your keys for today's game. 1)Following last night's 4-0 flop to San Diego, the Pirates try to make meatloaf of San Diego this afternoon. It beats goose eggs and fish tacos. 2 outta 3 ain't bad! 2)Mrs. Black-N-Gold labeled last night's latest loss a "flop". They were 2-hit on the way to the loss column to a last place team. This team seems to be lacking something this season. Remember the last few years when no lead was insurmountable? Not this team. Not this year. They lack drive and desire. To paraphrase the great American poet James Morrison: Come on baby, light that fire! 3)LH Christian Friedrich, 4-7, 4.76 ERA starts for San Diego. The Buccos counter with RH Jameson Taillon, 2-2, 3.29 ERA. Jamo looks like he's got the goods and he's a keeper. Unfortunately, Friedrich looks like the type of ham-and-egger that constantly confounds the Pirates, much like last night's winner, Edwin Jackson. What's the best why to make that mealoaf? We need a big helping of Hit, Run & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Look at me, I can be in centerfield! Our Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series with the San Diego Padres tonight at PNC Park. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pirates found the win column last night with a 6-4 win in the opener. The Bucs plated their 6 runs on 10 hits. However, they could have done more. They were just 3 for 13 with runners in scoring position. There's always room for more Hit, Run & Score! 2)San Diego starts RH Edwin Jackson, 2-2, 5.00 ERA. Score early, score often, score BIG! 3)The Buccos go with RH Ryan Vogelsong, 1-1, 3.25 ERA. Vogey showed alot of heart in his last start, his return from the DL following facial fractures. Give 'em L, Vogey! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Put me in coach! Our Pittsburgh Pirates open a 3-game series tonight at PNC Park versus the San Diego Padres. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pirates are trying to set sail for the win column again following Sunday's 7-3 debacle of a defeat to Cincy. They've fallen to 3 games out of the 2nd wild card spot. You've got to refuse to lose! 2)San Diego starts RH Luis Perdomo, 5-5, 6.67 ERA. Mrs. Black-N-Gold doesn't know much about this Perdomo fellow. It's best to hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD; Hit, Run & Score! 3)The Bucs are calling up rookie RH Chad Kuhl for another start. Kuhl is 1-0 with a 4.19 ERA. A win would be cool! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS

     Extra! Extra! Read all about it! Mrs. Black-N-Gold has all the happenings that has all of Black-N-Gold Nation talking. She's got updates on our Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers and Penguins. Yes, sports fans, she's got The Black-N-Gold News for you.


                                               THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS


PIRATES

It was a busy week for our Pirates, both on the field and off it. As usual, the roster shuffle continued. C Eric Fryer was reinstated from the paternity list. To make room for Fryer, the Bucs optioned C Elias Diaz back to Triple A Indy. 

The Pirates went out and dropped the opener of their 2-game set with Seattle 7-4. The final game of the series went much better for the Buccos. The sunk Seattle 10-1. RH Gerrit Cole recorded the 1st complete game of his Major League career. Congrats to the Cole Train! 

Before the start of last Friday's series opener with Milwaukee, the Bucs optioned RH AJ Schugel back to Indy. They called up LH Steven Brault. It didn't help as the Pirates dropped the 1st game of the 3-game series, 3-1. In that matchup with Milwaukee, C Francisco Cervelli left the game when he was hit in the foot with a pitch while working behind the plate. 

Prior to last Saturday's game and 72 hours before the non-waiver trade deadline, the Pirates played "Let's Make a Deal". They dealt RH Mark Melancon, their closer and a 3-time All-Star (including this season) to the Washington Nationals. The Bucs received LH Felipe Rivero and LH prospect Taylor Hearn in the trade. They then went out and dropped another to the Brewers 5-3. 

Before Sunday's finale with Milwaukee, the Pirates sent Brault back down to Triple A and called up INF Max Moroff. The Pirates also avoided the sweep, defeating Milwaukee 4-2. 

Monday's trade deadline kept GM Neal Huntington busy. NH traded LH Jon Niese back to the Mets. This deal saw the return of former  Pirates LH Antonio Bastardo to the bullpen. The Bucs also snagged RH Ivan Nova from the Yankees for 2 Players to be Named Later. One final deal was made. The Bucs traded LH Francisco Liriano and his salary, along with 2 prospects, C Reese McGuire (a former 1st round pick) and OF Harold Ramirez. The entire haul was sent to Toronto. The Bucs got back RH Drew Hutchison who was promptly sent to Triple A (where he has spent most of the season for the Blue Jays, too). 

The Pirates opened a 3-game series in Atlanta on Tuesday, their last trip to Turner Field. The Bucs took the opener 5-3. Frankie C left this game after an HBP to the head. Wednesday night's game saw the Buccos fall to the Braves 8-4. 

RH Ryan Volgelsong was recalled from his rehab assignment at Triple A while Moroff was sent back to Indy and RH Wilfredo Boscan was given his release. This was Vogey's 1st start since going on the DL back in May after suffering facial fractures due to a beaning versus Colardo. He pitched well for missing so much action. Unfortunately, the Pirates continue to play lackluster baseball against the worst team in the Majors, losing 5-2 and losing the series. 

Friday night, the Bucs returned home to face the Cincy Reds in a 3-game series. The Pirates won in walk-off fashion on Friday thanks for INF Sean Rodriguez's solo home run. He got new LH Tony Watson off the hook for blowing his 1st save at home since inheriting the closer's role in the Melancon trade. 

Another trade was made on Saturday. This time is was of the waiver variety. Seattle received RH Arquimedes Carminero from the Bucs for a Player to be Named Later. The Pirates called up RH Curtis Partch from Indy to fill Caminero's roster spot. Nova made his Black-N-Gold debut and was super en route to a 5-3 victory. The Bucs were looking to break out the brooms yesterday but it was not meant to be. Cole continued his inconsistent season by losing the finale to Cincy 7-3. 

The Pirates will continue their homestand on Tuesday when NL West cellar dwellers the San Diego Padres come to town. Rookie RH Chad Kuhl is expected to be recalled for the start. The Bucs continue to cling to their slim playoff hopes. They are 2.5 games back for the final Wild Card spot. At 9-11 since the All-Star break, our favorite Black-N-Gold baseball team has played more like a team that wants to watch the playoffs from their couch, instead of participating. You gotta want it to win it. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

STEELERS

Our Steelers FINALLY kicked things off at training camp at St. Vincent College in Latrobe. Free agent signee, TE Ladarius Green began camp on the Physically Unable to Perform list due to offseason ankle surgery. As of this writing, Green is still on the PUP list. Of course, many players get banged up during camp. It's a long haul before our favorite Black-N-Gold football gets to their 1st regular season game on September 12 versus Washington. Unfortunately, not every player will make it to the regular season opener injury-free. 2nd year CB Senquez Golson is one such player. Golson missed all of his rookie season due to shoulder surgery. Word was that he looked good in his 1st training camp early. He just couldn't make it through healthy. Golson is out with a Lisfranc injury to his left foot. The injury may require surgery and he's expected to miss approximately 12 weeks. 

Some former Steelers were honored at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton this weekend. Former LB Kevin Greene (with Terrible Towel in tow) and DB and defensive coach Tony Dungy were among the greats inducted on Saturday. Dungy cut his teeth as a coach on Chuck Noll's staff but was inducted as a head coach thanks to his coaching career with Tampa Bay and Indy. Still, both Greene and Dungy was and always will be members of the Black-N-Gold. Congrats to both!

Now our Steelers will get ready for their 1st action of the preseason. They'll battle the Detroit Lions this Friday, August 12 at Heinz Field. Let's see what you've got. Try to come out of it as healthy as possible. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!

PENGUINS

Our Penguins are enjoying their offseason as the Stanley Cup continues to make the rounds. D Kris Letang and his son got to enjoy their morning cereal as they ate from Lord Stanley's Cup. Coach Mike Sullivan took it with him to Boston. G Marc-Andre Fleury took it with him to a local children's hospital up in Canada. 

We continue to await word from C Matt Cullen regarding his contract status. When a decision has been reached, Mrs. Black-N-Gold will let you know. 

Meanwhile, it's less than 70 days until the puck drops. Let's Go Pens!!!!

THE BULLPEN

        The crack of the bat, the thrill of the hit! Our Pittsburgh Pirates close out their series with the Cincy Reds this afternoon at PNC Park. These are your keys for today's game. 1)The Pirates look to clean house today following last night's 5-3 victory. They look to sweep the Reds back to Cincy as they go for 3 in a row. How sweep it is, break out the brooms! 2)Cincy starts RH Dan Straily, 6-6, 3.80 ERA. This season, in 3 appearances versus the Bucs, he has allowed 3 runs or less in each outing. We need more Hit, Run & Score! 3)The Buccos counter with RH Gerrit Cole, 7-6, 2.73 ERA. Typically, Cole does not pitch well against Cincy. Got to get Cole on the winning track. All aboard the Cole Train for a win! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Root, root, root for the home team! Our Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series with the Cincy Reds tonight on the North Shore at beautiful PNC Park. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Attention Pirates fans, the Jolly Roger has been found, safe and sound, at PNC Park. It almost didn't look like we'd have a Jolly Roger-sighting last night but thanks to Sean Rodriguez's walk-off homer, the Bucs found the win column in the opener 3-2. Win, raise, repeat! 2)Deadline pickup RH Ivan Nova makes his Black-N-Gold debut tonight. He'll face Reds RH Homer Bailey, 1-0, 3.18 ERA. While Nova starts his 1st game for the Bucs, Bailey pitches in his 2nd game since 2014, coming back from arm injuries. Give 'em a shot of Nova-cane! 3)A win is a win but the Pirates had to squeak by Cincy to do it last night. We gotta have more Hit, Run & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     I'm on my way home, sweet, home! Our Pittsburgh Pirates return to the friendly (?) confines of PNC Park tonight to begin a 3-game series with the Cincy Reds. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Someone hand Mrs. Black-N-Gold an IC Light, 'cause this team makes me want to drink. Yes, the Pirates dropped 2 of 3 to the Atlanta Braves, following last night's rain-delayed 5-2 defeat. That's 2 straight losses for the Bucs. During this latest losing streak, the Buccos scored just 3 runs and have gone a combined 2 for 17 with runners in scoring position. There's always room for more Hit, Run & Score! 2)Someone put out an APB because the Jolly Roger is missing. Again. If found, please return to the Pittsburgh Baseball Club immediately. Raise it! 3)Typically when our favorite Black-N-Gold Baseball team faces Cincy, Mrs. Black-N-Gold reminds everyone of the virtues of keeping Cincy CF Billy Hamilton off the basepaths. The kid is such a speedster that he can turn a single into a triple at the blink of an eye. Or she we take this 3rd Key to the Game and look at tonight's pitching matchup. We'd love to see rookie Jameson Taillon right the ship and find the win column, of course. But instead, Mrs. Black-N-Gold is going to take the Pirates to task for their horrendous play. It's time to stop SUCKN and start BUCN! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Rounding third and heading for home! Our Pittsburgh Pirates wrap up their road trip in Atlanta tonight when they face the Braves. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)"One Step Foward, Two Steps Back". That is the story of the 2016 Pittsburgh Baseball Club. The Pirates took a HUGE step back in the standings last night, losing to the worst team in baseball, the Atlanta Braves, 8-4. The Bucs staked starter Jeff Locke to a 4-0, 1st inning lead and then went absolutely nowhere. Mrs. Black-N-Gold cannot say it enough with this pitching staff. Score early, score often, score BIG: Hit, Run, & Score! 2)Everyone agreed that the Bucs could/should make hay with this portion of the schedule. Instead of making hay, they've played like crap. Just like Locke, they'll trot out another re-tread tonight in RH Ryan Vogelsong. Now, don't get Mrs. Black-N-Gold wrong. She feels for Vogey with all that he's been through this season. However, she also questioned this signing way back in the offseason. If you're going to mail it in, which it seems the Buccos are intent upon doing, then do so with the youngsters. Not someone who's on his last legs. The kids are alright! 3)Yes, the Pirates will attempt to make some southern meatloaf tonight down in ATL. Does Mrs. Black-N-Gold sound bitter today? That's because the kool-aid that the Bucs try to sell us, loyal fans, every year has turned to toilet water. The Pirates have flushed this season away and left a bitter taste in this fan's Black-N-Gold mouth. But there is still always the words of the great American poet, Marvin Lee Aday. 2 outta 3 ain't bad! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     I have seen enough to know I have seen too much! Our Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series in Atlanta tonight when they battle the Braves. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pirates put one in the win column with last night's 5-3 win in the opener. Can they continue that trend tonight? We shall see. Some key contributor's in last night's victory were guys that aren't normally in the starting lineup (Frazier, Kang, Joyce). Will they see the field again tonight? Mrs. Black-N-Gold isn't sure but maybe they should. Go with the hot hand! 2)After scoring just 6 runs in the 3-game series in Milwaukee this weekend, the Bucs put 5 on the board last night. There's always room for more Hit, Run, & Score! 3)The Buccos have LH Jeff Locke, 8-6, 5.43 ERA on the bump. He'll face Atlanta RH Rob Whalen, making his Major League debut. Give the rook his welcome to The Show moment. Locke up a win and give him L! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     There's no crying in baseball! Our Pittsburgh Pirates look to get back in the win column when they take their show on the road to Atlanta for a 3-game set starting tonight. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pirates desperately need to find the win column following their lost weekend in Milwaukee. With Sunday's 4-2 defeat, the Brewers broke out the brooms to sweep the Bucs out of town. In that series, the Pirates scored just 6 runs in 3 games. Need Mrs. Black-N-Gold say more? You gotta Hit, Run, & Score! 2)At 37-68, the Braves have the worst record in the Majors. Ok, Buccos. You couldn't even squeeze 1 win out of Milwaukee. If you can't beat the worst steam in baseball, who can you beat? Following yesterday's baffling deadline deals, are the Bucs raising the white flag? Mrs. Black-N-Gold hopes that's not the case. Raise the Jolly Roger! 3)Pirates RH Gerrit Cole, 6-6, 2.78 ERA will face Atlanta RH Mike Foltynewicz, 4-4, 4.30 ERA. Here's another mediocre pitcher that the Bucs will make look like the second-coming of Cy Young. And our ace? What ace? At 6-6, Cole has not often pitched like the #1 overall selection that the Pirates made him in back in 2011. You''re 4 games out of the Wild Card, Bucs. What are you going to do about that? Hop on the Cole Train for a win! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!