Next Game
Cincinnati Reds
@ Pittsburgh Pirates
Friday, Apr 11, 2008, 7:05 PM EDT
PNC Park
Edinson Volquez vs Paul Maholm
Mostly cloudy with a 60-percent chance of rain. Winds blowing from right to left field at 10-15 m.p.h. Game Time temperature: Near 75.
Steven Senne/AP (Volquez), Al Behrman/AP (Maholm)
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The Pirates started their season by splitting the first two games in Atlanta and then winning the rubber match with a tenth-inning RBI from Xavier Nady. So, are they as good as the third best team in the NL East? Nah. Thus far, they appear to be the same old Pirates: 3-6 after losing two in Miami and then being swept at home by the Cubs. In the first nine games, their pitching staff has only twice held their opposition under five runs. Their team ERA is 5.34 with a 1.55 WHIP. (But watch out for the lefty John Grabow out of the 'pen.)
Aside from Dunn, the Reds have had some success against Maholm. If Volquez gives us six good innings and Weathers can handle this less-than-fearsome lineup, the good guys should continue this sweet roadie they have going. -Fat Vegas Alan