Players To Watch
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Pirates' Andrew McCutchen Ready to Face Rangers at PNC Park

First Inning


As the Pirates gear up to face the Rangers at PNC Park, all eyes will be on Andrew McCutchen, the standout right fielder for the Bucs. Over the past three games, McCutchen has demonstrated impressive consistency and power at the plate. His performance against the Cubs on June 14 was particularly noteworthy, where he achieved a .500 batting average with a home run and an RBI, contributing significantly to his team's efforts.


Aug 20, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Texas Rangers starting pitcher Cody Bradford (61) throws during the first inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates  at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

McCutchen's overall stats from these games reveal a formidable presence in Pittsburgh's lineup. With an average of .250 and an OPS of .75 over three games, he remains a key player for the Pirates. His ability to connect with pitches and drive them deep into the field makes him a crucial asset as they prepare to take on Texas.


Second Inning


The Pirates' pitching staff will also play a pivotal role in their upcoming matchup against the Rangers. Mitch Keller, one of Pittsburgh's starting pitchers, has shown potential despite mixed results in recent outings. In his last game against the Cubs on June 15, Keller recorded an ERA of 3.0 with a WHIP of 0.8333 over his innings pitched. While he didn't secure a win, his control and ability to limit base runners were evident.


Aug 19, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Texas Rangers pitcher Kirby Yates (39) throws against the Pittsburgh Pirates in the ninth inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Another pitcher to watch is Carmen Mlodzinski, who struggled in his recent appearance but possesses significant strikeout potential with a K/9 rate of 9.0 from his game against Detroit on June 17. The Pirates will need both pitchers to bring their best if they hope to stifle Texas' potent lineup.


Third Inning


On the other side of the diamond, Corey Seager stands out as one of Texas' top performers heading into this clash. Seager's bat has been hot lately; he delivered an outstanding performance against Kansas City on June 18 with a .667 average and an OPS of 1.75. His consistent ability to get on base and drive in runs makes him a threat that Pittsburgh must neutralize.


Aug 19, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Luis L. Ortiz (48) throws a pitch against the Texas Rangers in the first inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Marcus Semien also poses a challenge for Pittsburgh's defense with his solid hitting form over recent games. Semien boasts an average of .500 from their game against Chicago on June 15 and has been instrumental in setting up scoring opportunities for Texas.


Fourth Inning


In terms of pitching prowess for Texas, Kumar Rocker is expected to be pivotal in keeping Pittsburgh's hitters at bay. Rocker's recent outing showcased his skill set effectively; he maintained an ERA of 0.0 while striking out batters at a rate of 10.8 K/9 during their game against Chicago on June 15.


Additionally, Caleb Boushley offers depth from Texas' bullpen with commendable control displayed through his zero ERA performance versus Kansas City on June 18—ensuring minimal opportunities for opposing hitters.


Fifth Inning


Looking ahead to this exciting matchup scheduled for June 20th at PNC Park in Pittsburgh (6:40 PM ET), fans can catch all action live via SportsNet PT broadcast network coverage across Pennsylvania regions or stream online through authorized platforms offering MLB content access nationwide! With both teams showcasing dynamic talents across various positions—from powerful sluggers like Andrew McCutchen leading Bucs’ charge offensively downfield alongside reliable arms such as Mitch Keller anchoring mound duties defensively—it promises thrilling baseball moments throughout each inning played under evening skies above iconic stadium grounds nestled within heartland cityscape backdrop known affectionately by locals simply as "Steel City."


Don't miss out—tune-in now & witness firsthand epic showdown between these two formidable squads vying supremacy atop league standings race towards postseason glory!


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