THE BULLPEN

The crack of the bat, the thrill of the hit! Your Pittsburgh Pirates continue their series in DC tonight against the Washington Gnats. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)The Pirates start LH Francisco Liriano, 9-4, 2.44 ERA against the Gnats' RH Stephen Strasburg, 5-7 with a 2.97 ERA. Last time out, Frankie pitched his worst outing of the season, a 5-3 loss to Cincy. He gave up 5 runs in 4 1/3 innings. How do you follow up your worst start of the year? Go out and pitch your best start of the year. Mow 'em down, Frankie! 2)Frankie also goes for double-digit victories tonight for the 3rd time in his 8-year career. Meanwhile, the Gnats have lost 5 straight and are 2-8 in their last 10. Kick 'em while they're down and veto the Gnats! 3)The Pirates have won 3 straight. Go for #4 with plenty of Hit, Run, & Score! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!