THE BULLPEN

Schlemeel, schlemazel! Your Pittsburgh Pirates look to get back into the win column tonight in Milwaukee, a place we're they can't seem to find the win column. It's time to get the monkey off your backs, Bucs. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates will finish the month of April with at least 15 wins. The last time the Bucs did that, 1992, was the last time they had a winning season and the last time they sniffed the postseason. A win tonight would set a new Pirates record with 16. It's time to break the mold! 2)In their last 52 games in Milwaukee, the Pirates are 7-45. Whoa, baby! Eight would be great! 3)Milwaukee starter Marco Estrada has served up 7 taters this year. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD! If you want to play with the big boys, you've got to learn to beat them. Ya gotta Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!! 

THE BULLPEN

The crack of the bat, the thrill of the hit! Your Pittsburgh Pirates begin a 3-game series at their House of Horrors, Miller Park, tonight against the Brew-Haas. Will the Bucs turn their luck around in Milwaukee? These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates are 15-0 when leading after 8 innings. They are also tied for the NL lead with 5 shutouts with St Louie and San Fran. Let's see the Brew-Haas swim into the Shark Tank! 2)The Marte Partay continues. Starling Marte is second in the NL in multi-hit games. He also has an 8-game hitting streak and leads the Pirates in stolen bases. Partay on, dude! 3)The Pirates knocked out 4 homers in yesterday's 9-0 victory, Russell Martin hit 2 and Garrett Jones and Jose Tabata had 1 apiece. Chicks dig the long ball! Also, congrats to coach Boney Hurdle. Yesterday's win gives him 700 for his career. Let's hope he gets 700 more while in Pittsburgh. Did I mention Milwaukee is a House of Horrors? Go in there with some crosses, wooden stakes, holy water and the ol' Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Buy me some peanuts and cracker jacks! Your Pittsburgh Pirates look to sample some Meatloaf in St Louie today as they go for 2 outta 3 against the Red Birds. These are your keys to today's game. 1)The Pirates have won 4 of their last 5. They also stopped the Red Birds 4-game winning streak. Keep clipping those Birds' wings! 2)In Pirates starter Jeff Locke's last start, he gave up 2 hits in 6 innings en route to a 2-0 victory over Philly. Lock 'em down, Locke! 3)Cardinals starter Shelby Miller is 3-1 with a 1.44 ERA. The battlin' Bucs handed him his only defeat in a 5-0 loss on April 17. Say bye, bye to this Birdie! Gotta keep things going with the ol' Hit, Run, & Score today. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

It's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Pucks & Bucs Day continues as your Pittsburgh Penguins faceoff against the Carolina Hurricanes at Consol Energy Center. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pens try to avoid closing out the regular season on a 3-game losing streak. Start the playoffs on a winning note! 2)The Pens are 7-3 in their last 10 games. 8 would be great! 3)Carolina is 2-1-2 in their last 5 games. Nothing would be fina than a win over Carolina! Let's see some Goals, Goals, Goals tonight! Get those playoff beards ready. Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

Hey batter, batter, batter! It's Bucs & Pucks Day as your Pittsburgh Pirates look to get back in the win column today in St Louie. These are your keys to today's game. 1)Pirates starter A.J. Burnett is 1-2 with a 2.79 ERA this season. A.J.'s only win was a 5-0 victory over the Red Birds.As A.J. likes to say it's time for "preparation for domination"! 2)A.J. leads the league in strikeouts with 42. Mow 'em down, A.J.! 3)St Louie starter Jake Westbrook is 1-7 with a 5.91 ERA in 9 career starts versus the Bucs. Hit him early, him him often, hit him HARD! We need some Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

It's a great day for hockey! Your Pittsburgh Penguins are in New Jersey tonight to faceoff against the Devils. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)Jarome Iginla is riding a 4-game scoring streak. 5 would not be jive, Iggy! 2)Evgeni Malkin is back. In Geno's last 7 vs. NJ, he has 4 goals and 5 assists. Gotta get tuned up for the playoff drive, Geno! 3)Even though the Pens suffered a rare loss on Tuesday, they've still managed to win 22 of their last 25 games. Time to start another winning streak! Cue the Crue 'cause we'll need plenty of Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

The Bucs are going all the way, all the way, all the way! Your Pittsburgh Pirates begin a 3-game set tonight in St. Louie versus the Birdies. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates have outscored their opposition 34-11 from the 7th inning on this season. Fire 'em up! 2)St Louie starter Lance Lynn gave up 4 runs and 7 hits in 5 innings in his last start against the Pirates. Light him up! 3)The Bucs have won 12 of their last 16. They've also won 5 of their last 7 in St. Louie. And in their last 7 games, Pirates pitchers have a 1.89 ERA, allowing just 13 runs. Shut 'em down! What's the best way to keep this going? Give 'em the ol' Hit, Run, & Score, that's how! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Let's play 2! Your Pittsburgh Pirates close out their series this afternoon against the Philthedelphia Sillies. These are your keys to today's game. 1)The Pirates go for 3 in a row versus  Philly. The battlin' Bucs have won 11 of their last 15. Keep that train a'rollin! 2)The Pirates are also looking for their first ever series win at Citizens Bank Park. Get that monkey off your back! 3)Pedro Alvarez has been on fire, of late. In Petey's last 6 games, he's 7 of 19 with 4 home runs and 6 RBI's. Light 'em up, Petey! James McDonald starts for the Bucs. He is 2-2 with a 4.12 ERA. Cliff Lee is on the mound for the Sillies. Lee is 2-1 with a 2.83 ERA. Looks like we'll need lots of Hit, Run, & Score today! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

One, two, three strikes, you're out! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series in Philthedelphia tonight against the Sillies. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates send Wandy Rodgriquez, 2-0, 0.56 ERA to the mound. The Sillies counter with 2-time Cy Young Winner Roy Halladay, 2-2, 6.04 ERA. Say "sayonara" to Cy Young! 2)The battlin' Bucs have won 4 of 5 and 10 of their last 14. Keep it comin'! 3)In the Pirates 2-0 win last night, Philly went 0 for 5 with runners in scoring position. Leave those Philly ducks on the pond! How do the Pirates spell victory? Hit, Run, Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Play ball! It's another Bucs & Pucks Day! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series in Philthedelphia tonight as they square off against the Sillies. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates are 2-5 on the road this season. Turn those road woes around! 2)Philly starts Cole Hamels tonight. The Sillies have lost all 4 of Hamels' starts this season. Get to him early! 3)Catcher Russell Martin is riding a 7-game hitting streak. During the streak he is 11 for 23 with 2 home runs, 3 doubles, 6 runs scored and a .571 on-base percentage. Ride him like a rented mule! We need to amp up the ol' Hit, Run, Score tonight to get to these guys! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

It's a hockey night in Pittsburgh and another Pucks & Bucs Day! Your Pittsburgh Penguins faceoff against the Buff Sabres tonight at Consol Energy Center. First off, congrats to goalie Tomas Vokoun. Last night, Vokoun won his 300th career game. He is only the 28th goalie in NHL history to do so. Way to go, Tomas! Now, these are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pens have won 7 in a row. Ya know, 8 would be great! 2)In the last 6 games at home, the Pens have killed all 20 power plays. There's some power in their play! 3)The Sabres are the only team to defeat the Pens in the last 15 home games. What's that tell us? Score early, score often, score BIG with some Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

One, two, three strikes you're out! Your Pittsburgh Pirates are in Philthedelphia to start a series with the Sillies tonight. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Sillies are starting Jonanthan Pettibone tonight. It's the rook's first Major League start. Give the kid a big welcome to the bigs. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD! 2)The Pirates were 7-2 on their homestand and have won 9 of the last 12. Keep 'em coming! 3)The Pirates are looking for a season high 4 wins in a row. How do you get to four? Hit, Run, Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

It's a great day for hockey! Your Pittsburgh Penguins are in Ottawa as they faceoff against the Senators tonight. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)Congrats to the Pens! They clinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference. Now it's time to get healthy and get ready for the playoffs. Start growing those playoff beards! 2)The Penguins have won 6 games in a row. 7 would be heaven! 3)The Pens are going for their first season sweep of the Sens since 1995-96. Break out the broom! Hit 'em with some Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!

50-YARD LINE

Going into this year's draft, things look upside down for your Pittsburgh Steelers. What had been a glaring weakness for several years, their offensive line now looks to be one of their few strengths. And some of the tangibles they could always count on in years past, depth and leadership, are the most obvious needs. If this team thinks 8-8 was great, they're going to love 7-9 or 6-10. With all the holes on the Steelers roster, they can't afford any projects. Since the Steelers are chasing their 7th Lombardi Trophy, we'll look at 7 needs in this draft. Luckily, this draft is being described as a "depth" draft. The Steelers have 8 picks. Be careful what you with for.

1)Running Back-Former 1st round pick Rashard Mendenhall fumbled his was to Arizona. Chris Rainey got kicked off of the team. That leaves Issac Redman, Jonathan Dwyer and Baron Batch, hardly the types of running backs that instill fear into the hearts of defenses. They didn't have much luck when they drafted Mendy in the 1st round. Dare they spend the #17 overall pick on a running back? Running backs that have been tied to the Steelers are Eddie Lacy of Alabama, South Carlolina's Marcus Lattimore and Montee Ball from Wisconsin. They all seem a bit of a stretch in the 1st round. Especially Lattimore who is coming off of major knee surgery.

2)Wide Receiver-Even with Emmanuel Sanders on the field for another year, there is still a lack of depth and speed with this unit. Sanders and Antonio Brown, the starters, have both missed time during their careers due to injuries. Backups Plaxico Burress and Jerricho Cotchery are both gray beards in today's NFL. The Steelers matched the Patriot's tender and signed Sanders for another year. Face it, the only way the Steelers can get back to the same level as New England is by stockpiling and maximizing draft picks. They fumbled that opportunity by hanging onto the injury-prone Sanders for another year. Wide receiver is supposed to be one of the deeper positions this year and they've had a knack for finding diamonds-in-the-rough in the later rounds. Players mentioned as potential picks include Tavon Austin of WVU, Tennessee's Cordarrelle Patterson and Keenan Allen from California. Without any deep threats on the roster, can they afford to hold off until the later rounds this year?

3)Linebacker-Both the inside and outside linebacker corps are depleted. Especially, with the release of former Defensive Player of the Year, James Harrison. Harrison's replacement, Jason Worilds, doesn't really set the world on fire. He has spent more time in the trainer's room than on the field. LaMarr Woodley has been accused of being out of shape to the point of injury, too. There's really no depth on the inside or outside. Larry Foote played well for a guy that is on the wrong side of 30. Can they get another year out of him? Lawrence Timmons broke out last year. We'll see if he can string together a run of several years there. In the past, the Steelers would draft undersized defensive ends and transform them into 3-4 outside linebackers. The problem is, there are ALOT more 3-4 teams in the league and they'll all be looking for the same type of player. Possible draft picks for this position include Jarvis Jones of Georgia. Will the Steelers move up to get him? There is also Dion Jordon from Oregon. Will he be gone at #17? Ezekiel Ansah of BYU is mentioned as a project. Then there is Manti Te'o out of Notre Dame who may fall to the Steelers at #17. Linebacker is not considered a deep position in this year's draft. The Steelers may want to snatch one with their first pick if they don't trade out of the 1st round to get some more picks.

4)Defensive Line-Are former 1st round picks Ziggy Hood and Cam Heyward busts? Have we seen the last of Casey Hampton? Can they count on another strong year out of Brett Keisel? The Steelers blinked and signed RFA NT Steve McLendon to a 3 year deal, after Green Bay showed interest. That never used to be the Steeler's way. It used to be a player left, another stepped up to take his place. Possible picks mentioned for the Steelers are Barkevious Mingo out of LSU, Bjoern Werner from Florida State and Ohio State's John Simon.

5)Secondary-Better get replacements lined up for Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark. They're not getting any younger and they're only getting more brittle. With the losses of Will Allen and Ryan Mundy (no big loss) to free agency, where's the depth? Cortez Allen stepped up at corner but Ike Taylor isn't getting any younger, either. Backups? Anyone? Names tossed in the Steelers direction are safties Matt Elam from Florida, Eric Reid out of LSU and Texas' Kenny Vaccaro (possible #1?). CB Tryann Mathieu from LSU is also being mentioned.

6)Tight End-Will Heath Miller be lost for the entire season? The Steelers may feel that way. That would explain the re-signings of David Johnson (also a part-time fullback) and Matt Spaeth. They also have second year man David Paulson returning. I like Paulson and would like to see him become the next Heath Miller but, again, you need some depth. Some of the players linked to the Steelers are Tyler Eifert from Notre Dame (will he be there at #17?), Rice's Vance McDonald, and Travis Kelce out of Cincinnati.

7)Quarterback-Time to start grooming a replacement for Ben Rothlisberger? Bruce Gradkowski is the only backup on the roster. It's not a strong quarterback class, either. Still, the Steelers may want to make this a need sooner, rather than later.

All in all, I think it would be a horrible move for the Steelers to move up in the draft. They should stick to the game plan of drafting the best player available, not drafting for a need. The good thing about this draft is the Steelers have so many needs, hopefully the best player available will fill one of their many needs. The best bet to me is try to find a willing trading partner and trade down from #17 overall to amass more picks. Try and get some high character, high football IQ guys who can make an impact sooner rather than later. With this draft, there isn't much room for error. Choose wisely.

Go Steelers!!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

The crack of the bat, the thrill of the hit! Your Pittsburgh Pirates look to continue their winnings ways this afternoon as they close out their homestand against the Atlanta Bravos. These are your keys to today's game. 1)The Pirates are going for a 3rd consecutive win, which would also give ATL their 3rd loss in a row. Pirates starter Jonathan Sanchez has been playing like a Dirty Sanchez all season. He is 0-2 with a 12.96 ERA. Seriously, think how good the Pirates could be if they had a real pitching staff, not just AJ and Wandy and hope a blind squirrel finds a nut. Sanchez needs to step up or get outta the way! 2)I know the season isn't even a year old yet and it's way too early to watch the scoreboard. But, the Pirates are over .500 for the first time this season after winning 6 of 8. Keep that train a' rollin'! 3)ATL is 1 for 13 with runners in scoring position in this series. Make them leave those ducks on the pond! ATL is still tied for the best record in baseball at 13-4. The Pirates are 1 game back of division leading St Louie. A win today and Clint Hurdle will take the Pirates to the Dairy Queen for ice cream. Don't forget: Hit, Run, Score, oh my! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Batter up! Your Pittsburgh Pirates go for 2 in a row against the Atlanta Bravos tonight at PNC Park. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates pounded 5 extra base hits in last night's 6-0 victory over ATL. The hits just keep on coming! 2)When Pedro Alvarez is cold, he's arctic, when he's hot, he's scorching. It looks like the temperature is rising for Petey. He has 2 homers in his last 2 games. Fire it up, Petey! 3)Once again, will the real James McDonald please stand up. JMac is 1-2 with a 5.27 ERA. He is 3-0 with a 1.73 ERA in 4 starts as a Pirate against ATL. The clock is ticking on JMac, either wake up and step up or get outta the way! The Pirates need to support this guy with some Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Root, root, root for the home team. Your Pittsburgh Pirates try to get back in the win column tonight against the Atlanta Bravos at PNC Park. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)ATL is 13-0 when they score at least 1 run. How do you stop that? You shut 'em out! 2)ATL scored all 6 runs in their 6-4 victory last night with the long ball. Tonight's Pirates starter, Wandy Rodgriquez, has only given up 4 homers in his last 11 starts. Help us, Wandy! 3)BJ & Justin Upton are 3 for 15 lifetime vs. Wandy. Gotta hold 'em! Go out and give it the old Hit, Run, Score, & get more, more, more! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

It's a great day for hockey! Your Pittsburgh Penguins travel to Boston to faceoff against the Bruins tonight. Let's pray for Boston following Monday's tragedy but cheer the Penguins onto victory. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pens have won 5 in a row. Keep the drive alive! 2)Newly-acquired Brenden Morrow has been hot lately. He has 5 goals and 3 assists during a 4-game point streak. Brenden Morrow is bringing opponents lots of sorrow! 3)Not only have the Pens won their last 5, they have beaten the Bruins the last 5 times and have won 5 straight in Boston. How do they do it? Lots of Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

Buy me some peanuts and cracker jacks! Your Pittsburgh Pirates begin a 4-game series tonight at PNC Park against the Atlanta Bravos. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Bravos lost yesterday to KC, 1-0, to end their 10-game winning streak. The Pirates have won 6 out of 8 games. How about we get those Bravos a losing streak?! 2)Atlanta starter, RH Julio Teheran, is 1-1 with a 7.36 ERA in 11 innings. Tee off on this kid! 3)Starling continues to be sterling. The Marte partay has a 10-game hitting streak, batting .356. In the first inning, he is 8 for 13. Who said this kid can't leadoff? Keep the partay going with the old Hit, Run, Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

BLUES N'AT

Back in December, we saw a blues band in the basement bar of the Trio Lounge in Washington. They sounded really good and their guitarist knocked us out all night with his impressive licks. On a lark, we picked up said band's CD. Little did we realize when we saw Billy the Kid & the Regulators and purchased the CD, "She Got a Hold on Me", of the good things that were yet to come. The CD competed in the self-produced category at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis this past February. And Billy the Kid & the Regulators recently won the Blues Society of Western Pennsylvania's Blues Challenge, getting to represent the BSWPA in the best band category next year. After Billy won the competition this past weekend, it occurred to me that I never reviewed this tasty CD. I'm about to rectify that below.

Is Billy the Kid a gun-slinging guitarist or a master chef? The reason I pose this question is because "She's God a Hold on Me" is a delicious blues & rock stew with a hint of funk to satisfy your musical taste buds. The appetizer is the hard-driving "Nothing to Lose". Then Billy dives into "Say You Wanna Woman". The lyrics aren't really my taste but the mixture of horns, harmonica and keyboards really bring out the boldness in Billy's guitar. After that comes a slow-burn, funked up version of "Born Under a Bad Sign" to get you ready for the main course. Then Billy serves up more funky blues with the title song. This song reminds us why this CD represented at the IBC. Next comes my favorite offering, "Disturbed by the Peace". In this song, Billy sings that a policeman tells him to turn down the guitar saying, "Billy that guitar is just too loud". Sorry officer, but I object! That's like asking Wolfgang Puck to order some Domino's Pizza. Billy then cleanses our palettes with the slower, "Free from Your Spell". On it, he continues to keep listeners under his spell with more tasty licks from his delicious Flying V. You may ask, at this point, what's for dessert? "One More Chance" gives us one more chance to enjoy this smorgasbord of musical musings by Billy the Kid & the Regulators. Boy, does this hit the spot!

SLAP SHOTS

It's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Your Pittsburgh Penguins faceoff against the Royal Canadiens of Montreal tonight at Consol Energy Center. These are your keys to the game. 1)It's a tale of 2 goalies. Marc-Andre Fleury is 8-1-0 in his last 9 starts with a 1.59 GAA. Carey Price has a 6.59 GAA in his last 3 starts, all losses. Put the biscuit in the basket and the Flower will blossom! 2)The Pens have won 4 in a row, 13 of their last 14 at home, and 19 of 21 overall. The Pens have won 6 of their last 7 versus Montreal. Why stop now? 3)I'm in a Montley Crue mood today. Better score some Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

Batter up! Your Pittsburgh Pirates will try to take one in this rain-shortened series with the St Louie Cardinals tonight at PNC Park. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates have scored 25 runs, not counting last night's washout, in their last 4 games, batting .336. Good wood! 2)St Louie OF Carlos Beltran is 5 for 24 in his last 7 games. He's hitting .180, 5 for 21, with no extra-base hits in his last 14 games at PNC. Shut him down! 3)Gotta keep the hit parade moving. Don't forget our motto: Hit, Run, Score! Get a victory for AJ tonight. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Hey batter, batter, batter, batter! Your Pittsburgh Pirates try to right the ship and get back in the win column tonight against the St Louie Cardinals at PNC Park. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)St Louie starter Jake Westbrook is 1-1 with a 0.00 ERA this season. Tonight, Westbrook tries for his 100th career victory. In 9 career games versus the Pirates, Westbrook is 1-7 with a 5.91 ERA. Something's got to give. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD! 2)St Louie has won 5 of their last 6 games. We gotta clip those Cardinals! 3)Starling Marte continues to partay. Starling has a 9-game hitting streak going 18 for 39, .462. He has 7 RBIs in his last 6 games. Partay on, Starling! Let's get to BUCN and see some more Hit, Run, Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Play ball! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their homestand, starting a 3-game series tonight versus St Louie at PNC Park. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates have won 5 of their last 6 games, including a 3-game sweep of NL Central rival, Cincy. They've scored 32 runs in those last 6 games. Break out the lumber! 2)The Bucs had season highs for hits, 15 and runs, 10 yesterday. They also blasted 3 home runs, 2 by the Fort and 1 from the Marte Partay. Chicks dig the long ball! 3)Speaking of Marte, Starling has been sterling, riding a 7-game hitting streak. The Marte Partay keeps on rolling! Starling knows what it's all about, Hit, Run, Score, always get some more! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

The crack of the bat, the thrill of the hit! Your Pittsburgh Pirates close out their 3-games series with the Cincinnati Dreds this afternoon an PNC Park. RH Mat Latos, 0-0 with a 2.84 ERA goes for the Dreds. RH Phil Irwin will get the spot start in Wandy's place. These are your keys to today's game. 1)The Pirates look to do a little house cleaning and sweep the Dreds back to Cincy. The last home sweep of Cincy was April 16-18, 2010. Break out the brooms! 2)It's been a Marte Party, of late. Starling has been sterling in the leadoff spot. He's batting .341 and drove in a run last night. The hits just keep on coming! 3)The Pirates have won 4 of the last 5. GI Jones has swung a hot bat during this run, going 8 for 18 with a homer. He had 2 hits and an RBI last night. The Dreds have dropped 4 in a row while getting outscored 24-7 in that stretch. Please remember: Hit, Run, Score, always go for more! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Root, root, root for the home team! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their 3-game set with the Cincinnati Dreds tonight at PNC Park. The Bucs took the opener 6-5 thanks to a homer by Andrew Mc"Clutch"en. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates are 2-2 at home. Cincy is 1-3 on the road and has loast 4 in a row. Let's see the Bucs feast on that home cooking! 2)Dreds' starter Johnny Cueto has given up just a total of 6 earned runs in his last 6 at PNC. Don't be so easy on this kid. Light him up! 3)The Pirates have scored at least 5 runs in 3 of their last 4. Ya gotta believe in the Hit, Run, Score, more, more, more! Now get to BUCN. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

Scratch my back with a hacksaw, it's a great day for hockey! Your Pittsburgh Penguins look to go undefeated as they close out this road trip. They faceoff against the Kittens in FLA tonight. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)FLA has allowed the most goals in the Eastern Conference. Score early, score often, score BIG! 2)The Pens have 11 goals in their last 2 games, during their 3-game winning streak. Mama wants some Goals, Goals, Goals, baby! 3)The Pens were 3 for 6 on the power play versus Tampa Bay on Thursday. FLA has the worst penalty kill in the NHL, 74.6%. Take advantage of that man-advantage and light 'em up! Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

Take me out to the ballgame! Your Pittsburgh Pirates return home for a 10-game homestand starting tonight at PNC Park versus the Cincinnati Dreds. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)Remember last year, late in the season, during the heat of the pennant race, when the Pirates went to Cincy? About the only hits the Pirates got were hit by pitches from the Cincy pitchers. The Bucs never did retaliate for the plunkings that their batters suffered. The best revenge is victory. What these Dreds need is a good beating. I'm not talking bench-clearing brawl, either. The Dreds have lost 2 in a row. Hit 'em early, hit 'em often, hit 'em HARD! 2)What the Pirates need is a good "O", as in offense. They have the worst batting average, .153, in the league. They're also next to last in runs scored with 21 total runs. How about some Hit, Run, Score, tonight?! 3)It's Mike Leake, 0-0 with a 6.00 ERA against AJ Burnett, 0-2, 3.27 ERA. AJ hasn't gotten any support from his teammates this year. They've only scored 1 run in his 2 starts. Meanwhile, Leake has the leaky ERA. The Bucs usually make chumps like Leake look like Cy Young. C'mon, Bucs. AJ deserves a big win in front of the home crowd tonight! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

It's a great day for hockey! Your Pittsburgh Penguins are in Tampa Bay tonight to continue their 3-game road trip as they faceoff against the Lightning. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)I don't know if he's in goal tonight but did you know that Flower leads the NHL with 20 victories? With Flower in goal, it's lights out! 2)The Pens have won 17 of 19 and are 14-5-0 on the road. The Pens continue to feast on that takeout food! 3)Tampa Bay has won 5 of their last 6 at home. However, they have lost the last 5 in a row to the Pens. Something has got to give. Time to break out the Motley Crue and score some Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

One, two, three strikes, you're out! Your Pittsburgh Pirates close our their series in the desert this afternoon against the Arizona Diamondbacks. These are your keys to today's game. 1)The dry heat must suit the Bucs well. Their bats have heated up as they've scored 11 runs in the first 2 games. Hit, Run, Score, more, more, more! 2)Break out the broom as the Bucs go for their first-ever sweep at Chase Field. Hope you packed those brooms! 3)GI Jones and Starling Marte have really turned up the heat. Jones is 4 for 9 in the series with 3 RBIs and a homer. Marte is also 4 for 9. He has 4 multi-hit games in a row. The hits just keep on coming! Get that sweep and come home on a winning note. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

Hey batter, batter, batter! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their 3-game series in the desert tonight against the Arizona Diamondbacks. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)After downing the Diamondbacks 5-3 last night, the Pirates go for 2 wins in a row, a season high. Line 'em up and knock 'em down, Bucs! 2)Clutch had to runs batted in for the 2nd straight game and Starling was sterling, collecting 2 hits for the 3rd straight game. These outfielders are catching on! 3)It's a tale of 2 pitchers tonight. JMac is on the hump for the Pirates. He is 0-1 with a 1.29 ERA. Brandon McCarthy starts for Arizona. He is 0-0 with a 10.80 ERA. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD. Let's see some Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

Nothing could be fina than a win in Carolina. It's a great day for hockey! Your Pittsburgh Penguins blow into Carolina to faceoff against the Hurricanes tonight. These are your keys to the game. 1)Carolina has lost 12 of their last 13 games. Kick 'em while they're down! 2)The Pens clinched their 7th consecutive postseason and are the first team in the East to do so. Start growing those playoff beards, boys! 3)Carolina has lost 7 in a row at home. The Pens are 13-5 on the road and love takeout food. Let's see some grits and Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

"Raise the jolly roger". Will Pittsburgh Pirates fans get to hear that victory cry tonight? The Battlin' Bucs are in the desert tonight to take on the Arizona Diamondbacks. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates have suffered 4 losses in a row, getting swept in 3 in LA. They were shutout in the first 2 games. Good news! They managed to plate 2 runs yesterday. Bad News! The Codgers scored 6. You don't win ballgames like that! 2)The only Pirate pitcher to record a victory, Wandy Rodriguez, is on the mound tonight. Help us, Wandy! 3)I had feared going into this season that the Bucs would falter due to their method of selecting players to make the team: by default. Let's see, Tabata is out of options, so he makes the team. Locke didn't lock down a starter's spot but no one else did, either, so he makes the team. Opponents won't default the Pirates wins, will they? I suppose the Pirates have the fans best interests at heart.....Instead of waiting until the second-half of the season to collapse, they're trying to be more efficient and get the collapse out of the way now. Where, oh where, is the Hit, Run, & Score? Maybe we should put it on the side of a milk carton. Turn this ship around, fellas. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

BLUES N'AT

Consol Energy Center was on fire last night. No, it wasn't the Penguins lighting up opposing goalies with a barrage of pucks to the net. It was the scorching licks of one Eric Clapton and his TNT-laced band. As with most 3-alarm fires, you have to create a small spark with some kindling. Slowhand did just that, breaking out the acoustic to start us off with Hello Old Friend and My Father's Eyes. He quickly got the fire roaring when he broughte out the Strat for a white-hot version of Tell the Truth. At first it seemed like Clapton was happy, as always to play the role of sideman. He even did it with the opening act, the Wallflowers', final number, a cover of The Weight. He let Doyle Bramhall II, who produced his current CD, Old Sock, take the lead a number of times. Bramhall is an accomplished and phenomenal guitarist in his own right. But face it, folks came to see EC tear it up. And tear it up, he did. They broke out Gotta Get Over from the new disc. Then Clapton veared into the blues, as he would on several occasions this evening with a burning version of Albert Collins' Black Cat Bone. By then, it was time to bring the funk, and bring it they did. Fireworks erupted musically for the funky version of Got to Get Better in a Little While. Clapton truly took my breath away on this one! At that point, Clapton was ready to take a step back. He handed vocals over to keyboardist, Paul Carrack, formerly of Squeeze and Ace and broke out the Squeeze classic Tempted. A little later on he jumped into a version of How Long, too. Carrack still has the pipes that made both of those tunes hits. And what would a Clapton concert be without some fresh Cream? Loved hearing Badge, a tune that doesn't get enough airplay. He also did a tremendous version of Crossroads during his Robert Johnson portion of the show.  He really lit a fire under Sunshine of Your Love, too. EC broke the acoustic back out for Tears in Heaven. I swear, there wasn't a dry eye in the place. He kept it unplugged for Layla and pulled out Lay Down Sally and Wonderful Tonight for the unplugged portion, as well. Loved that he did Love in Vain and Little Queen of Spades for the Johnson tribute. And Cocaine was as hot as ever. Unfortunately, when Carrack tore into Joe Cocker's High Time We Went, I knew it was time to put out the fire. But much props goes out to all of Clapton's band. It's always great to see the explosive Steve Jordan on drums, for sure. Greg Liesz's lap steel work was burning up the joint all night. I loved how Clapton's backup singers, Sharon White and Michelle John, fanned the flames all evening. Bassist Willie Weeks and organist Chris Stainton kept the fire burning. It's like Mr. BlackNGold said "it's Clapton, you have to be good to be in his band". How true. But the one whose fire burned brightest last night WAS Eric Clapton. Bravo.

THE BULLPEN

He can't hit, he can't hit. Or should I say WE can't hit. Your offensively-challanged Pittsburgh Pirates try to salvage some runs and a win today in LA versus the Codgers. These are your keys to today's game. 1)Last night the Pirates were only able to manage 2 hits and 2 walks against 11 strikeouts. They only had 1 runner in scoring position and left must 3 men on base. You can't get on the board if you don't find a way to manufacture some runs. It looks like it's back to the drawing board for the Bucs! 2)AJ Burnett and the bullpen only gave up 1 run last night. Another wasted pitching performance. You've got to make the most of these outings and capitalize on this pitching! 3)The Pirates have only scored 6 runs in their first 5 games. They are 30th in the league in runs, batting average, OBP and slugging. I see a very disturbing pattern developing here. It's really quite simple: HIT, RUN, SCORE, REPEAT AS NECESSARY! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

BLUES N'AT

Eric Clapton's latest CD, Old Sock, is an example of the vast array of music that has influenced Slowhand in his 68 years. Clapton likes to spread himself around, musically, with blues, reggae and even some standards. He gathers an impressive list of guest stars on this album from Paul McCartney to J.J. Cale, from Taj Mahal to Chaka Khan. There is even an assist from his former Blind Faith band mate Steve Winwood as well as his young daughters, Julie, Ella and Sophie singing backup. Clapton is in a mostly mellow mood. There's a cover of Cale's Angel with it's mellow vibe and elegant guitar. EC keeps the easy listening going with a cover of Folks Who Live On The Hill. He puts the rock in this CD with Gotta Get Over, one of two new tunes. Then Clapton goes a little bit country with Born To Lose. He gets his blues on with a cover of Gary Moore's Still Got The Blues. Let's face it, though, EC's days of recording scorching guitar solos are a thing of the past. These days he's happy to have the guitar as a melodious accompaniment. However, Clapton likes to wear his musical influences on his sleeve and on Old Sock, they fit him like a glove.

THE BULLPEN

Buy me some peanuts and crackerjacks! Your Pittsburgh Pirates take on the LA Codgers in game 2 of this 3-game set tonight in Los Angeles. The Pirates dropped the first game of the series last night, 3-0, collecting only 2 hits on their way to their 2nd consecutive loss. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates have lost 11 of their last 12 games at Codger Stadium. I'd say we're due! 2)The Bucs are the only team left in MLB that have not recorded a home run. Chicks dig the long ball, break out the lumber! 3)For the second day in a row, the Pirates face a former Cy Young winner, 2011NL Cy Young recipient, Clayton Kershaw. Let's get some good wood on this guy! The Bucs need to channel their inner Lumber Company and Hit, Run, Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

It's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Your Pittsburgh Penguins look to get back in the win column tonight as they faceoff against the New York Strangers to wrap up this home-and-home series. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)After winning 15 straight, the Pens have dropped 2 in a row, both without Captain Sidney Crosby. Coincidence? I think not but the Pens have to find a way to take care of business while Sid heals. Put the biscuit in the basket! 2)The Penguins have given up 10 goals and have only scored 2 in those 2 losses. Where's the D? Tighten the puck up! 2)Strangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist is 5-2-1 with a 1.72 GAA in his last 8 starts. Score early, score often, score BIG! Lots of Goals, Goals, Goals, baby! Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

One, two, three strikes, you're out! Your Pittsburgh Pirates are on the road tonight to take on the LA Codgers at Chavez Ravine. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates face LA starter Zack Greinke tonight, the former 2009 AL Cy Young Winner. Say sayonora to Cy Young! 2)Greinke was 15-5 with a 3.48 ERA last year. In his last 8 starts he went 5-0 with a 2.04 ERA. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD! 3)Pirates starter Jonathan Sanchez is 3-1 with a 2.10 ERA is his last 4 starts versus LA. I love LA! The bats have been a little silent in the early going this season. What better place for them to come to life than under the bright lights of LA. Hit, Run, Score, Repeat! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

BLUES N'AT

Robert Randolph Presents the Slide Brothers has something for everyone.  Do you like the blues? They’ve got it covered. Traditional? It’s in there. They have gospel to make you want to get up and testify. They even have some pop with a nod to Fatboy Slim (with an assist from Shemekia Copeland’s fabulous pipes). And they, for sure, have something for the guitar lover in you.  Robert Randolph has taken Calvin Cooke, Darick Campbell, Chuck Campbell and Aubrey Ghent out of the church and into the recording studio for our enjoyment. These gentlemen were raised on the sacred steel tradition of steel guitar and translate it into pure ear candy. Their version of the Allman Brothers’ “Don’t Keep Me Wonderin’” would make brother Duane proud. They really put the gospel into George Harrison’s “My Sweet Lord”, too. The Slide Brothers channel some of the greatest rock/blues guitarists in history. They did their ode to Duane as well as Eric Clapton on “Motherless Children” and Stevie Ray Vaughan with “The Sky Is Crying”. Of course Slowhand and SRV were doing their own cover versions of those classics, too. What the Slide Brothers do is re-do these tunes with their own exquisite slide work. Overall, this CD is a wonderful mix of traditional, gospel, and secular music that sounds good coming out of my stereo or my church. Kudos goes to Robert Randolph for presenting the Slide Brothers to an unsuspecting and appreciative public.  I highly recommend the Slide Brothers' CD. Your ears will thank you.

THE BULLPEN

Hey batter, batter, batter! Your Pittsburgh Pirates look to serve up some Meatloaf this afternoon to the Chicago Scrubs at PNC Park as they go for 2 out of 3 today. These are your keys to today's game. 1)The Pirates need starter James McDonald to be the JMac from the first half of last season. JMac went 9-3 with a 2.37 ERA. Overall, he was 6-2 with a 2.73 ERA at home, holding opponents to a .199 batting average. Nothing beats homecooking, JMac! 2)The Pirates may have won 3-0 last night but they're only 2 for 13 with runners in scoring position. Don't forget about the Hit, Run, Score, guys! 3)Luckily, the Scrubs have been even worse with runners in scoring position, going 0 for 13 with 8 strikeouts. Hold 'em, Bucs! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

The crack of the bat, the thrill of the hit! Your Pittsburgh Pirates look to get of the schneid as they square off against the Chicago Scrubs tonight at PNC Park. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)Scrubs starter Edwin Jackson is 4-0 with a 3.03 ERA in his career versus the Bucs. Get to him early! 2)Pirates starter Wandy Rodriguez was 2-1 with a 2.25 ERA last year against the Scrubs. Wandy has held OF Alfonso Soriano to a lifetime .122 batting average, 5 for 41, with 12 strikeouts. Help me, Wandy! 3)Clutch batted .360 with 4 home runs last year against the Scrubs and had a double, one of only 3 Pirates' hits, in Monday's matchup. Light 'em up, Clutch!  Oops, almost forget and I hope the Pirates don't forget: Hit, Run, Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

It's a great day for hockey. Your Pittsburgh Penguins look to get back in the win column tonight as they try to take a bite out of the Big Apple and the New York Strangers. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pens love their takeout food. They are 13-4 on the road this season. Score early, score often, score BIG! 2)The Pens have won the last 7 contests with the Strangers by a combined score of 28-8. Goals, Goals, Goals, baby! 3)The Pens are first in the NHL with 3.3 goals per game. Light the lamp in the Big Apple! How do you look out for the letdown after that big winning streak? By starting another big winning streak! Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BLUESN'AT

Ever wonder what the “n’at” in blackngoldnat stands for? Well today it stands for the blues. As a blues enthusiast living on the outskirts of Pittsburgh, it’s hard to find a place that offers live, home-grown blues music. The rising cost of fuel and the headache of parking in traffic make it near impossible to drive down to the city to catch some good tunes. Usually, the only way that is feasible is to do an overnight trip. It is, indeed, hard to do when you have “blues on a budget”. Recently, I’ve stumbled onto a place in Bethel Park that has been featuring some of the best blues the ‘Burgh has to offer without the hassle of the road trip. Frank’s Pub on route 88 in Bethel Park has been bringing in the big guns of blues in Pittsburgh. In the past few months, I’ve seen Sweaty Betty, Jill West and Billy Price, to name a few. It’s a small venue but they manage to really pack ‘em in. Guest musicians will even come up and join in the fun. Frank himself will step out from behind the bar and help out on harmonica. The food and the service are both very good. You get plenty of food for your hard-earned buck, too. Frank usually has bands once or twice a month on Saturday nights. He plans on having Jill West and Blues Attack back in April.  Billy Price is due back in May. Gary Belloma and the Blues Bombers are scheduled for June. If you want to see some kick ass blues but can’t get to the city, check out Frank’s. But get there early, the place fills up quick and parking can be tough.  They always like to warn you, too, don’t park across the street, you will get a ticket.  Only problem is, there isn’t a dance floor. You’ll have to boogie at your table or your spot at the bar. Smokers bring a jacket. It’s a non-smoking establishment. Hope to see you there for the next gig. Get ready for some jammin’ blues!

SLAP SHOTS

Great balls of fire, it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Don't tell your Pittsburgh Penguins the month of March is over. They faceoff tonight against the Buffalo Light Sabres at Consol Energy Center. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)It's a tale of 2 teams. The Light Sabres have lost 4 in a row. The Pens have won 15 straight. Kick 'em while they're down! 2)The Light Sabres lost on their last trip to Pittsburgh, 8-3. Geno had a hat trick and 2 assists. With Sid out indefinitely, we'll need Geno to step up and play like the MVP that he is. Mow 'em down, Geno! 3)The Pens have recorded 3 shut outs in a row, a franchise record. We like those goose eggs! Shut 'em down and score as many Goals, Goals, Goals, as you can. Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

Take me out to the ballgame! Your Pittsburgh Pirates open the 2013 campaign versus the Chicago Scrubs this afternoon at PNC Park. Is this the year the Bucs finally get over the hump and have a winning season? Let's take it one game at a time. These are your keys to today's game. 1)Scrubs starter Jeff Samardzija was 9-13 last season with a 3.81 ERA. He did one-hit the Bucs over 8 innings last July. Get to this kid early and often! 2)Pirates starter AJ Burnett is making his first career opening day start. AJ was 16-10 with a 3.51 ERA last year as he went 2-1 with a 1.40 ERA versus the Scrubs and tossed his own one-hitter against them. Mow 'em down! 3)Since AJ is the starter, we'll go with his motto for the 3rd key: "preperation for domination". Let's see our Buccos hit, run and score. Oh my! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!