Game 93: Marlins at Pirates

Big A.J. vs. Lil' Z for the win.

Game 92: Marlins at Pirates

Correia vs. Nolasco tonight. Bucs need a win for a chance at first place tomorrow.

If the Bucs trade for a Drew or Scutaro or other upgrade at SS, Barmes could start in RF.

Off day

No game today. Bucs are tied for first, with the Reds hosting the D-backs today.

Preparation for the postseason should not involve rest, but instead extra batting practice and maybe even a buntathon.

Game 91: Pirates at Rockies

J-Mac and Guthrie in a must-win day game. Hopefully some of the infielders can run around in the outfield today.

RF prospects

Quickly looking through the minors for utility infielders who could start in right field, it's clear that Altoona is the first place to look, with an impressive and affiliate-leading 54 bunts. However, closer inspection reveals Cumpton bunting his ass off is in part responsible, with a jaw-dropping 8 SH in only 25 PA. He's a pitcher though, not a utility infielder.

Benji Gonzalez in Bradenton is the obvious choice, leading the minors with 9 SH while playing 2B/SS/3B, so probably ready to jog out into RF and learn on the job.

Game 90: Pirates at Rockies

Bedard and Friedrice tonight.

Bucs need a win to drive away the creeping languor.

Game 89: Pirates at Rockies

Karstens and Francis tonight.

The Bucs need to bunt and trade their way back into first place.

Game 88: Pirates at Brewers

A. J. Burnett and Gallardo at two.

Here's hoping that Larry Vanover excused himself from last night's Blatz party.