Tonight, The Pirates play the Padres in the 2nd game of this series.

Pitching Match-Up

Pirates
Zach Duke
(4-7) 4.92 ERA with 49 K's this season

Padres
Cha Seung Baek
(0-1) 5.40 ERA with 15 K's this season

Low-Down
Zach Duke is a good pitcher, but has had some serious question marks surrounding his consistency this season. However, I don't see that becoming an dissue due to San Diego's weak batting order.

Key Factor
Tonight's key factor will be how long Duke spends time in the game. The longer he is on the mound, the longer the Padres will be kept from taking the lead. If Duke gives us a solid 6 innings, I'll be happy and comfortable putting Tyler Yates in for relief.

Prediction
Pirates-11, Padres- 3
The Pirates are on a hot streak of late, taking down the Astros and Padres to win 4 straight. I see the winning streak continuing tonight with a 5th straight win, 11-3 Buccos.

-Mike Greenspire