Now that I have your attention, let me tell you the story that the final score does not tell you:

After 3 complete innings the Pirates held a 3-0 lead, and after 4 complete innings they held a 3-1 advantage.
The Bucco's scrapped for one run in each of the first 3 innings, with the help of 3 Cubs' errors and 2 walks.
Meanwhile, Rick Knipper held the Cubs scoreless in those innings, working around 6 walks, by surrendering no hits.

Those walks caught up to Knipper in the 4th, when he gave up two more (along with a single by Mike Reutter),
walking in the first Cubs run. He was able to escape the further damage (bases loaded and two outs) by spearing a hot
one hopper (with a 3-0 count) and throwing to first for the final out of the inning.

Knipper was relieved by Dana Hansen to lead off the 5th inning, and the Cubs jumped all over him. The Cubs would plate
7 runs on 5 hits and 3 more walks, to take a 8-3 lead. The lead would grow to 16-3 by the top of the 7th, as the Cubs
got one run in the 6th on 4 consecutive singles, and 7 more runs in the 7th on 7 hits, a walk, and a hit batter.

Mike Reutter led the way for the Cubs offense, with 3 hits and a walk. Jim McQuade, Jim Bonaparte, Ron Lochner, and Mike Girard
all added two hits each. John Happ was the best offensive player for the Pirates on this night with a 3 for 4 performance,
including a 3 run double in the 7th. Mike Girard went 6 innings on the mound for the Cubs, allowing 3 runs (1 earned),
scattering 8 hits and walking 3, while striking out 5.

This Pirates team has some new talent and their improved hitting and defense makes them a threat every time they take the field.
Just ask the Twins. Take them lightly at your own risk!



-- Edited by mgirard11 on Saturday 20th of May 2023 09:41:15 AM

-- Edited by mgirard11 on Saturday 20th of May 2023 09:45:36 AM