Opinion
3 min read

Pirates Aim to Chart Winning Course Against Rockies at PNC Park

As the Pittsburgh Pirates prepare to host the Colorado Rockies at PNC Park, fans are eager for what promises to be an intriguing matchup. The Pirates, coming off a rollercoaster series of games, look to capitalize on their home-field advantage and steer back into calmer waters.


May 9, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Ji Hwan Bae (3) hits a sacrifice bunt against the Colorado Rockies during the fifth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In their recent encounter with the San Francisco Giants on April 28th, the Pirates showcased resilience in extra innings. Despite a loss with a final score of 4-3, they managed 11 hits and demonstrated clutch hitting by pushing three runs across in the tenth inning. Their batting average was solid at .282 and they successfully stole bases at every attempt. However, one area that needs tightening is their performance with runners in scoring position (RISP), where they only managed one hit out of eight attempts.


The bullpen's performance was noteworthy as well; with an ERA of just 2.25 over four innings pitched against the Giants, they showed that they can hold down the fort when called upon. This could be crucial against a Rockies team known for late-game rallies.


May 9, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates designated hitter Andrew McCutchen (22) hits an RBI single against the Colorado Rockies during the third inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

On April 27th against those same Giants, however, it was a different story for PIT's offense as they failed to bring any runners home despite eight hits – highlighting inconsistency in converting opportunities into runs.


Defense has been reliable for PIT; fielding has been clean with few errors overall – just one error across these highlighted games – which will need to continue if they're going to keep COL's hitters at bay.


May 9, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Pittsburgh Pirates designated hitter Andrew McCutchen (22) pauses for a moment in the outfield before the game against the Colorado Rockies at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead to May 4th against COL, it’s essential that PIT maintains focus on capitalizing when runners are in scoring positions and continues its strong defensive play. The Rockies have had their own struggles but remain competitive thanks largely to their ability to fight back late in games.


For fans looking forward to this matchup between Pittsburgh Pirates and Colorado Rockies: mark your calendars for May 4th at PNC Park where first pitch is scheduled for 8:05 PM local time (Eastern Time Zone). You won't want to miss this game which will be broadcasted live on MLB Network – join fellow supporters as PIT aims for victory under the lights!

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