Pittsburgh Pirates’ A. J. Burnett to make Friday’s start against Cincinnati Reds – MLB News
Pittsburgh Pirates have slated A. J. Burnett as the starter for Friday’s opener against the Cincinnati Reds. The three-game series at the PNC Park will see Burnett playing his 30th game of the season, coming at a crucial time.
In the last game that he played, Burnett made an incredibly strong show of his pitching prowess, surrendering only a run and giving up four hits. That is what the manager Clint Hurdle will definitely like to see in Friday’s game.
"He was in complete control from start to finish," manager Clint Hurdle said. "Really good rhythm and tempo, had one of his best breaking balls of the year. His fastball command was spot-on. He was working ahead, putting people away. I also like the fact he retired 14 guys on three pitches or less.”
Things have not been particularly right for the Pirates, especially in the last two months wherein they have a 16-36 record. A club which once seemed all set to make it to the playoffs started struggling in the second half of the season.
However, Burnett will have a chance to empower the defence in Friday’s opener. At a time when the Reds' offence is struggling a great deal with the inability to assert itself, Burnett will have a tremendous opportunity to make most use of his experience and command. Having won 16 games this season with 172 strike-outs, Burnett maintains 3.53 ERA.
Reds have .229 batting average this month, something that tends to be worrying for the club as a whole. That is what they need to overcome as they enter the postseason games. Brandon Phillips, the Reds’ second baseman wants to set things right for the team as he has 5-for-39 record as he was to enter Thursday’s game. .
Phillips said, “But especially me, because I feel like it starts with me. Once I start getting my feeling back or whatever, I think everybody else will follow."
With a mix of records for both teams so far, it will be interesting to see which of the two will eventually prevail. Stakes are certainly higher for the Pirates.
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