THE BULLPEN

Root, root, root for the home team! Your Pittsburgh Pirates open a 3-game series tonight against the New Yawk Mets at PNC Park, their final series before the All-Star break. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)In Wednesday's 5-0 win, the Pirates pounded out 12 hits and went 5 for 9 with runners in scoring position. Finally, those poor ducks weren't left on the pond. Keep it up with plenty of Hit, Run, & Score! 2)Pedro Alvarez is riding an 8-game hitting streak. Congrats to Petey for, eventually, being named to represent the NL in the Home Run Derby. But remember, Petey, the Mets David Wright didn't pick you. You only got in the Derby because CarGo backed out. Love the snub and take it out on Wright and the Mets this weekend. Show 'em what you've got. Don't get mad, get even! 3)The Pirates pitching staff has MLB's best ERA at 3.09. In their last 25 games, only 1 Pirates starter has given up more than 3 runs. Line 'em up, and knock 'em down! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!