The Pirates will try to avoid a sweep with A.J. Burnett taking the mound. Burnett, having an Arroyo-like resurgence this year, sports a 13-3 record and an ERA of 3.27. If you're not a traditional stats guy, you'll be worried in knowing that Burnett has an ERA+ of 114 and has collected a WAR of 1.9 thus far. (That's good, right?) Baseball Reference regurgitations notwithstanding, if the Reds look to sweep, they'll have to do it against the most impressive pitcher on the Pirates staff for 2012.
The Votto-less, BP-less Reds will be led by Homer Bailey going for his tenth win of the season. Even though Burnett is 2-0 on the season against the Reds, it's turning into one of those seasons where you just simply cannot doubt the Reds; even if they decided to sign Willy Taveras and stick him in the lineup today. Heck, I wouldn't be surprised if the Reds allow Charlie Sheen to come down from his luxury box and record an out or two.
Go Reds, their #1 fan is a sociopath!
Lineups
Pittsburgh
1. Marte, LF
2. Harrison, 3B
3. McCutchen, CF
4. Jones, RF
5. Walker, 2B
6. Sanchez, 1B
7. Barajas, C
8. Barmes, SS
9. Burnett, P
* * *
Cincinnati
1. Cozart, SS
2. Stubbs, CF
3. Bruce, RF
4. Ludwick, LF
5. Frazier, 3B
6. Cairo, 1B
7. Valdez, 2B
8. Hanigan, C
9. Bailey, P