THE BULLPEN

     Well, your Pittsburgh Pirates season opener in Cincinnati is just days away. As I'm sure you're well aware, a few storylines have already developed during a relatively quite spring training. Just as New Yorkers will have to hear about A-Rod's return and Marlins fans will have to hear about Giancarlo Stanton's massive contract all season, there a stories that will follow our Buccos for most of the 162-game schedule. Today, Mrs. Black-N-Gold takes a look at three of those storylines. You'll laugh, you'll cry. It will be an emotional rollercoaster. Run, don't walk, to see these exciting stories play out on the field at PNC Park.

1)The Saga of Jung-Ho Kang-The Korean import made headlines even before he stepped into the batter's box. The $16 million man was reported to have said that he expects to perform better at shortstop this year than incumbent Jordy Mercer. Cue the gasping fans and the jaded media. Everyone was ready to burn young Kang in effigy. The infielder and his interpreter tried to smooth things over as best they could. In his defense, Jordy took it all in stride, welcoming the competition. Kang didn't win over any fans with his poor showing in spring training, either. Although lately, his bat has shown signs of life. Will the bright lights of the big city deter Kang or will he take Pittsburgh by storm? Stay tuned for the next exciting installment.

2)Pedro's Big Move-Former first round pick Pedro Alvarez took a fall from grace last summer. Following two straight seasons of 30+ home runs, El Toro tanked in 2014, falling to 18 homers. To add insult to injury, he threw away his gig at third base thanks to his erratic throws across the diamond. This season, Pedro will attempt to establish himself among the league's first basemen while also trying to find his swing. Can Pedro save his career and put himself back into the home run race? This move promises to bring plenty of drama to the hearts of Pirates fans everywhere.

3)AJ Part II:Batman Is Back-This is a story that will warm your heart. Make sure you have a box of tissue for this one. Our hero returns, as fan favorite AJ Burnett proves you can go home again. AJ turned down megabucks to come back to Pittsburgh to help bring a championship to the Steel City in his final season.

     There you have it. The three storylines Mrs. Black-N-Gold thinks will burn up the talk show lines and leave you wanting more. One thing is for certain, the Pittsburgh Pirates could be this summer's blockbuster, #1 hit. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!