THE BULLPEN

     Mrs. Black-N-Gold closes out her series of 6 Players To Watch This Season for your Pittsburgh Pirates. These are all players that our Buccos are depending on to help them get to the top of the NL Central and on to a World Series victory. Today we finish up with a man who says he is finishing up his MLB career in Pittsburgh this season, RH AJ Burnett.

      The 38 year old made headlines this offseason by turning down more money in Philly and returning to PNC Park to help the Pirates settle unfinished business. AJ brings with him a championship-caliber pedigree, having won a championship while with the New York Yankees in 2009.

     AJ's career has taken him all over the place, Florida, Toronto, New York, Pittsburgh, Philly and back to the 'Burgh, where he has enjoyed his most recent success. In 2012, AJ had a 16-10 mark for the Bucs with a 3.51 ERA, 180 strikeouts, 62 base on balls and a WHIP of 1.241 in 202 1/3 innings. AJ's 2013 numbers were a record of 10-11, a 3.30 ERA, 209 strikeouts, 67 walks and a 1.215 WHIP with 192 innings pitched.

     Last year, AJ did not do as well across the state. His record fell to 8-18, his ERA rose to 4.59 as did his walk total of 96. His losses and walks led the Majors. Of course, Philly's team was atrocious  and playing in a hitter's park such as Citizens Bank didn't help matters. Neither did the fact that AJ played with a hernia injury for much of the season.

     AJ is no longer a frontline starter but the Pirates are counting on his innings and to help along the younger pitchers in the organization. It always seemed like AJ bristled under the bright lights, big city. He is better suited as the big fish in the small pond, or river as it is in Pittsburgh. He excels out of the spotlight.

     However, the Pirates are hoping there is one more moment in the sun available this season for AJ Burnett to help the Buccos get over the hump  and to the top of the NL Central, leading them to a 6th World Championship. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!