Pirates Win On Eve Of Road Trip

The Pittsburgh Pirates won a critical game on Wednesday against the Chicago Cubs.  True, I said that one win / series won't change the series, but with the Reds playing some of the best baseball in the MLB, then you can't afford to lose games that you SHOULD win.  The Pirates used the long ball with 2 HRs, one from Michael "The Fort" McHenry, and the other from the Homeboy - Neil Walker.  Is it a coincidence that the actor that played "The Zoltan" was on hand to throw out the ceremonial first pitch??  I think not (Ediort's SideBar - See the photo, that is the Zoltan if you didn't know why all the Pirate players who get a hit or drive in a run make that sign towards one another...if you don't know The Zoltan, watch the movie "Dude, Where's My Car").  Now for the interesting news.  The Pirates have announced that Wandy Rodriguez will be entered into the starting lineup, but as to when, no one really knows.  Clint Hurdle announced that he just pitched Monday, so the first time he would be able to pitch would be Saturday...which is when Erik Bedard is slated to start.  News of resting starters still swirls, in which Rodriguez would certainly fill the void for those resting their ailing arms. 

Want more news as the Pirates get ready to open up a series in Houston?  Pirates star OF prospect Starling Marte.  Marte was hitting .286 and had a .348 OBP in AAA ball.  Those aren't astounding numbers, but scouts have been high on this kid since he was drafted form the Domincan in 2007.  The time is now for Marte to see if he can produce at the Major League level.  His spot in the lineup has yet to be seen, but he still will have a spot at either RF or LF depending on the situation with pitching, etc.  His right handed bat will hopefully help re-ignite the dormant bats of the "Battling Buccos".  There are alot of story lines headed into Houston: Will Rodgriguez pitch against his former team, will Marte make a difference, who's spot will Wandy be taking in the rotation, but all that matters is the Pirates go to Houston and win.  Win the series...plain and simple.  All with the "POWER OF THE ZOLTAN"!!