Pittsburgh rookie Brandon Cumpton scattered three hits over seven innings as the Cardinals bats were silent once again. It led to the club’s sixth straight loss as the Pirates swept the double header with a 6-0 win Tuesday night. The Cardinals fall to 1.5 games behind the Pirates.
Cards rookie Tyler Lyons gave up four runs, three earned, in six innings. He struck out five and walked one. After starting his career 2-0, he’s now lost his last four decisions, but lacked of offense and shoddy defense were to blame.
A rare passed ball by Yadier Molina let Jose Tabata score in the second inning. Molina was done for the night by the top of the fourth when right knee pain flared up again. He was replaced by Rob Johnson. He’s likely headed to the DL. Read more on Yadi’s status.
The troubles continued as left field Matt Holliday did his best impression of Chris Duncan. He looked like he had no clue as to what was taking place near the left field wall on two plays.
The Pirates took a 2-0 lead in the fifth on Jordy Mercer’s RBI single and Andrew McCutchen followed with a deep drive to left. Holliday was in position, but left his feet a split second too soon. The ball popped off the heel of Holliday’s glove and into the stands for a home run.
Later in the sixth, Holliday misplayed a fly ball hit by Josh Harrison in almost the exact same spot. Holliday was so far off, the ball landed behind Holliday and went for a triple. However, Lyons helped himself out with two outstandings plays. He snagged a line drive for an out and then caught a one-hopper trapping Harrison in a rundown keeping the score at 3-0.
The Pirates added two more in the seventh off reliever Keith Butler.