Pittsburgh Pirates thrash Cleveland Indians 9-2 – MLB News
It seems the Pittsburgh Pirates have become unstoppable, if not invincible.
The team on Saturday, June 16, came down hard on the Cleveland Indians, thrashing them with an emphatic 9-2 victory. The majestic win on Saturday had the hallmarks of a potential champion as the team went on to hit a total of four homers.
While the offence was at its peak in Saturday’s grand show, it was A. J. Burnett who furnished more of his credentials as a lithe, forceful and unassailable starter. Burnett collected sixth consecutive starting win on Saturday, becoming the first Pirates player to have the feat since 1990.
However, the player did not give the credit to himself alone. In his eyes, it was the equally commendable and strong contribution of the hitters to bring about the striking victory.
"The offense did the job today. The defense, too. I left a lot of guys on base. Guys made plays behind me."
While the Cleveland Indians' manager Manny Acta went so far as to say that "Pirates bombed us away with the long balls”, the Pirates had much of their reliance on the hitters too who did not disappoint them.
Much of the compliment after Burnett would go to McGehee who hit two homers on Saturday. Add to it the fact that he has maintained tremendous consistency since the start of the season, having had .370 average in last eight games.
"It's a bit of a tough situation to come to a new organization, where you want to make an impact right away. It's easy to put too much pressure on yourself," said McGehee, who started the month with having only had .186 average.
Relaxing, for him, is key. "I've been able to take a step back and relax, and play my game more. Being able to relax is the key to getting going and giving yourself a better chance of doing what you intend to do."
While Burnett pitched 6.2 innings to allow only two runs, the Pirates hitters went on to score almost in every pitch that they got chance in. The three-game series now stands levelled by 1-1.
Tags: