POPULARITY
Brandon Lowe delivered when the Pirates needed him most, driving in their first run, scoring the tying run and producing the walk-off hit against the Diamondbacks. Alex Stumpf explains why Lowe's veteran presence has become so important for a Pirates lineup dealing with injuries to Esmerlyn Valdez, Oneil Cruz and Spencer Horwitz. Plus, updates on Endy Rodriguez's return and the playoff atmosphere surrounding one of Pittsburgh's biggest games in years. OffBeat is presented by FanDuel. Subscribe to Book Rule Bucs for more Pirates coverage: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Pirates enter another “biggest series of the season,” but this one could have legitimate implications in the National League Wild Card race. Pittsburgh sits one game behind the Diamondbacks for the final spot and can secure the season-series tiebreaker by taking two of three at PNC Park. DiNardo and Jim break down the pitching matchups featuring Mitch Keller, Bubba Chandler and Jared Jones, along with why Arizona's struggles against right-handed pitching could favor the Pirates. They also discuss Derek Curiel officially joining the organization, Pittsburgh's plan to unlock more power from its first-round pick and how his under-slot signing helped strengthen the rest of the draft class. Plus, Spencer Horwitz and Endy Rodriguez could be nearing their returns, Esmerlyn Valdez continues to prove his breakout is real and the bullpen remains a major concern before the trade deadline. Subscribe for Pirates coverage throughout the Wild Card race and trade deadline.. @timelessimagery.mtl Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are firmly in the National League Wild Card race, and their improved depth might be the biggest reason why. Jim and Ryan discuss how players like Billy Cook, Tyler Callihan, Endy Rodriguez, Jacob Gonzalez, Jake Mangum and Esmerlyn Valdez have stepped up throughout the season. Even with Oneil Cruz, Konnor Griffin, Spencer Horwitz and Brandon Lowe missing time, the Pirates continue to find different ways to win. They also discuss the Pirates' plans at the trade deadline, concerns about ownership limiting payroll, potential bullpen targets and the upcoming series against the New York Yankees. Subscribe to North Shore Nine for daily Pittsburgh Pirates coverage. Bucco Brew is powered by De Fer Coffee & Tea. Use code NS930 for 30% off your first order. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
"I expect them to be aggressive" at the trade deadline. Ben Cherington said deals aren't getting done now. Jason doesn't think the Pirates have to shed payroll in order to add players. It's time to move on from Dennis Santana and he cannot pitch in later innings. Oneil Cruz's timeline has been pushed back. The Pirates need Endy Rodriguez back.
Endy Rodriguez and Jake Mangum have made impacts on the team, but are not dependable starting players. Rodriguez has a chance to. Fans continue to tell us they would trade Oneil Cruz for Mason Miller and Tomcat wants Michael King. Austin doesn't want to trade from the Major League roster.
The Brewers are trading for Lance McCullers. Should the Pirates trade for Josh Hader? He is signed through 2028. Steve Yzerman is stepping down as Red Wings GM. What's your Pirates lineup with Oneil Cruz, Spencer Horwitz, and Endy Rodriguez back? No one saw Esmerlyn Valdez's success coming and if it was going to be anyone, we thought The Password would be the star player.
Hour 2 with Jeff Hathhorn: The Brewers are trading for Lance McCullers. Should the Pirates trade for Josh Hader? He is signed through 2028. Steve Yzerman is stepping down as Red Wings GM. What's your Pirates lineup with Oneil Cruz, Spencer Horwitz, and Endy Rodriguez back? Mullsy joins the show for a The Open fantasy draft.
93.7 The Fan Sports Director Jeff Hathhorn joined the show. The guys asked Jeff about the big injury news surrounding the Pirates, which includes Konnor Griffin and Endy Rodriguez. Why were the Pirates being so secretive about this stuff? Marcell Ozuna is in the lineup tonight – could he be down to his final days in the Pirates lineup? Is there a chance Griffin heals a little quicker since he is so young? Why did Carmen Mlodzinski get used last night with the Pirates up big? The guys got Jeff's reaction to what Ryan O'Hearn did last night and where it ranks among single-game performances in Pirates history.
NFL executives voted TJ Watt as a top 10 edge rusher in football recently, having him at number 7. Is this reasonable? Mullsy does not think that TJ is the 7th best edge rusher in football, and says that he was surprised to see so many Steeler fans agree with him. Mullsy also says that you can make the argument that TJ isn't the best edge rusher on his own team. Endy Rodriguez has been placed on the IL with a left glute strain. The Pirates are getting killed by the injury bug right now. Mike Florio from Pro Football Talk joined the show. Aaron Donald commented with the eyes emoji on a post about him and Myles Garrett potentially teaming up in Los Angeles. Mike says that it would be almost impossible for NFL teams to stop both Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald on the same defensive line, even if Donald is only like 80% of the player the last time we watched him play. Mike says that Brandon Aiyuk needs to file a petition to the league to get reinstated and placed on the 49ers roster. Today is Jack Lambert's birthday. Mike was a huge fan of his.
The Pirates survived Washington, but now the real test begins. On this episode of Bucco Brew, we look ahead at a brutal stretch against the Braves, Brewers, Guardians, Yankees, Cubs, and Diamondbacks while the Pirates are likely still without Oneil Cruz and Spencer Horwitz for at least part of it. What does surviving the next three weeks actually look like? Is .500 baseball enough? We also dive into the weird All-Star conversation. Paul Skenes was named the Pirates' lone All-Star, but Brandon Lowe, Bryan Reynolds, and Braxton Ashcraft all have strong cases. How does a team with one of the best offenses in baseball end up with zero offensive All-Stars? Plus, Endy Rodriguez and Henry Davis have quietly turned the catching situation into a strength. Is this less of a controversy now and more of a functional setup? @eddiep_photos @timelessimagery.mtl Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Hour 4 with Bob Pompeani, Joe Starkey, and Matt Clement: Matt Clement would rather look for someone who could play third base and left them on defense. Endy Rodriguez injured his hip. Passan is linking Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers to the Pirates. Matt is not ruling out Carmen Mlodzinski being traded. Paul Skenes' arm angle is down a little bit. Belgium's request for an appeal has been denied and Flo Balogun will play today.
Alex Stumpf joins NS9LIVE! to discuss Paul Skenes' current struggles and his nine-start losing streak. What has happened to the velocity, splinker and breaking pitches that made Skenes nearly unhittable, and is fatigue beginning to become a legitimate concern? The crew also breaks down the Pirates' catching situation as Endy Rodriguez continues to hit his way into a larger role. Then, they close the show with Esmerlyn Valdez, who has quickly become one of the most exciting Pirates rookies in years while producing a 191 wRC+ through his first 64 plate appearances. Read Alex's full breakdown at Book-Rule Bucs: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/p/nine-thoughts-on-skenes-nine-game Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Pittsburgh Pirates were able to come away with a 6-1 win against the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday, earning a series split on the road.Jared Jones made his seventh start since coming off the injured list, allowing one run on two hits and two walks while striking out six batters. Carmen Mlodzinski came in and pitched three shutout innings, picking up his fifth win of the season.That gave way for Gregory Soto and Mason Montgomery to pitch the eighth and ninth, respectively. They didn't allow a hit or a walk, and combined to strike out four batters.Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Esmerlyn Valdez stayed hot, going 2-4 with a triple and three RBI. Nick Gonzales went 3-5 with two RBI, and Endy Rodriguez hit his fifth home run of the season. The Pirates now head to Washington for a three-game weekend series against the Nationals. Mitch Keller, Braxton Ashcraft, and Bubba Chandler are the three projected starters this weekend. Sammy Stafura continued to be hot at the plate, picking up four hits, including a double and a home run, in Greensboro's 23-10 win over Bowling Green on Thursday.Acquired from the Cincinnati Reds in the Ke'Bryan Hayes trade, Stafura has reached base in 21 straight games going back to the start of May. He's also recorded four straight multi-hit games and has homered in four of his last five. Despite a slow start while rehabbing with Bradenton, Stafura has his OPS up over .800 thanks to his recent play.Seth Hernandez made his first start of July, getting roughed up a bit at home against Bowling Green. In 3.2 innings pitched, Hernandez allowed five runs on eight hits and a walk while striking out seven. While he walked just one, he missed his spots on some of his pitches, which also led to the home run that eventually chased him from the game.Despite the outing, Hernandez still sports a 2.59 ERA this season, with 107 strikeouts over 66 innings pitched. He also picked off two baserunners, while also nearly notching a third. * RHP Enrique Quintana assigned to DSL Pirates Gold from DSL Pirates BlackTop Exit Velocity* Esmerlyn Valdez - PIT - 112.7 mph - Triple* Jhostynxon Garcia - IND - 110.8 mph - Double* Brandon Lowe - PIT - 109.8 mph - Lineout* Brandon Lowe - PIT - 106.6 mph - Single* Esmerlyn Valdez - PIT - 106.3 mph - Single* Ronny Simon - IND - 106.3 mph - DoubleTop Pitch Velocity* Jared Jones - PIT - 100.3 mph* Jared Jones - PIT - 100.2 mph* Jared Jones - PIT - 100.2 mph* Jared Jones - PIT - 100 mph* Jared Jones - PIT - 100 mphMost Whiffs* Seth Hernandez - GBO - 14* Jared Jones - PIT - 11* Noah Davis - IND - 11* Irwin Ramirez - BRD - 7* Dominic Perachi - ALT - 7* Joshua Loeschorn - ALT - 7* Carlson Reed - GBO - 7Support the site by becoming a paid member and get access to all of our premium content, including our top prospect list with complete player write-ups and video breakdowns, which come out weekly.It will also give access to my player feature articles from on-site trips.We have monthly and yearly plans available, with the latter costing an average of $4.16/month.Indianapolis Indians - 4 vs Omaha Storm Chasers - 2GamedayTop Hitter - Nick Cimillo: 1-3, R, 3 RBI, HRTop Pitcher - Mike Clevinger: 2 IP, KAltoona Curve - 10 vs Portland Sea Dogs - 3GamedayTop Hitter - Duce Gourson: 3-4, 2 R, 4 RBI, BB, HR, 3 SBTop Pitcher - Landon Tomkins: 2.2 IP, H, BB, 2 KGreensboro Grasshoppers - 23 vs Bowling Green Hot Rods - 10GamedayTop Hitter - Sammy Stafura: 4-6, 4 R, 4 RBI, 2B, HRTop Pitcher - Carlson Reed: 2 IP, 2 H, BB, 5 KBradenton Marauders - 6 vs Daytona Tortugas - 11GamedayTop Hitter - Antonio Pimentel: 2-5, R, RBI, 2B, 3BTop Pitcher - Noah Takacs: 0.2 IP, HFCL Pirates - 1 vs FCL Braves - 4GamedayTop Hitter - Darell Morel: 1-2, BB, 2 SBTop Pitcher - Dioris Martinez: 2 IP, 3 KDSL Pirates Black - SuspendedDSL Pirates Gold - 3 vs DSL Brewers - 9GamedayTop Hitter - Limanol Payero: 2-2, R, RBI, HRTop Pitcher - Yoslaniel Hernandez: 3 IP, H, ER, 5 BB, 2 K Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe
2. Harry Callas hasn't brushed his teeth since Saturday. 3. Has Jared Triolo earned some playing time? 4. Endy Rodriguez is now 0-14 against lefties 5. Why are there words with silent letters? 6. Billy Cook was in the lineup last night, why though? 7. Is Konnor Griffin the Pirates everyday leadoff hitter?
The Pirates got their doors blown off by Cristopher Sanchez and the Phillies last night, 8-0. Donny questions whether or not the Pirates were even trying to win the game last night based on the lineup they rolled out. Billy Cook and Endy Rodriguez were in center field and at first base over Jake Mangum and Ryan O'Hearn. Donny thinks that the Pirates' lineup yesterday was similar to those of the really bad Bucco teams. Callers chime in on the Pirates' ugly loss last night. Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk joins the show. Mike says that people knew about Chris Johnson's ALS diagnosis for a little while, but everybody was discreet out of respect for him. Mike says that he is and isn't surprised that there wasn't more outcry that football caused Johnson's diagnosis. Mike doesn't think that anybody will touch Terrion Arnold until his legal situation is settled. Mike thinks that Dianna Russini will never be able to escape the affair with Mike Vrabel.
The Pirates got their doors blown off by Cristopher Sanchez and the Phillies last night, 8-0. Donny questions whether or not the Pirates were even trying to win the game last night based on the lineup they rolled out. Billy Cook and Endy Rodriguez were in center field and at first base over Jake Mangum and Ryan O'Hearn.
Is Casey Mize in the circle of trust (4:30)? ... Eduardo Rodriguez keeps getting away with it (8:55). ... Endy Rodriguez might be legit (14:34). ... News (21:26): Aaron Judge will not be re-evaluated this week. ... Sean Burke impressed again (33:58). ... Is George Kirby in the circle or trust (39:33)? ... What about Parker Messick (47:11)? ... Who's hot and who's not, hitter edition (58:00). ... We wrap up with leftovers, bullpens and streamers (1:10:35).Subscribe to our YouTube channel: youtube.com/FantasyBaseballTodaySign up for the newsletter at https://www.cbssports.com/newsletters
Top prospect shortstop Joshua Kuroda-Grauer made a stunning major league debut for the Athletics, racking up three hits in his first game. Corey Pieper breaks down high-impact rookie promotions, crucial injury wire shifts, the daily Bullpen Report, and the FanDuel Bet of the Day. Roster adjustments are flooding the transaction wire as Tyler Soderstrom, Jacob Wilson, and Jeremy Pena are all headed to the injured list, while Addison Barger is shut down with a stress reaction. On the positive side, Hunter Greene is expected back this week, Tyler Glasnow has resumed throwing, Chase DeLauter is activated off the injured list, and Teoscar Hernandez returns to action while Ryan Ward hits the shelf. Roster managers must also track early game exits for Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Dane Myers following separate outfield collisions. A massive daily performance slate features Casey Mize striking out ten over seven one-hit frames, George Kirby fanning seven across eight strong innings, and Eduardo Rodriguez logging seven sharp frames. Offensively, Brandon Marsh launched two home runs, Endy Rodriguez smashed a grand slam, and Francisco Lindor, Esmerlyn Valdez, Cam Smith, Cole Young, and Heliot Ramos all left the yard, alongside stellar pitching lines from Sean Burke, Shane Baz, Trey Yesavage, Zebby Matthews, and Eric Lauer. On the negative side, Aaron Nola collapsed for seven earned runs in 4.1 innings, Braxton Ashcraft and Ryan Weathers combined to give up ten runs, Christian Walker went hitless, and frontline starters Sandy Alcantara and Gage Jump suffered heavy five-earned-run implosions. The daily Bullpen Report analyzes critical late-inning shifts across the league, tracking David Bednar heading to the paternity leave list, Gregory Soto handling duties for Pittsburgh, Garret Whitlock locking down a save for Boston amid Aroldis Chapman trade rumors, Trevor Megill staying locked in for Milwaukee alongside an eleven-win campaign for Aaron Ashby, Mason Barnett emerging for the Athletics, and a potential closer change for Paul Sewald. First Cup Fantasy Baseball drops every weekday around 9 AM ET on The F6P Hour. Use code F6PPODS for 15% off All Access at fantasysixpack.net – rankings, matchup tools, DFS and betting cheat sheets, and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Pirates looked dead after falling behind 5-0, but their offense completely flipped the game in an 11-7 win over the Phillies. Esmerlyn Valdez homered for the fourth straight game and reached base four times, Endy Rodriguez crushed a three-run homer in the ninth and Braxton Ashcraft battled through six innings after a rough start. Jim and Neil break down the six-run fifth inning, Valdez's continued breakout, Endy taking control of the starting catcher job, Ashcraft's ability to settle in and a bullpen that nearly gave another game away. 00:00 Pirates survive a wild 11-7 win 02:25 Esmerlyn Valdez sparks the comeback 07:20 Braxton Ashcraft battles through six 12:35 Pirates score six in the fifth 15:15 This offense can beat teams in different ways 18:45 Evan Sisk escapes against Kyle Schwarber 22:10 Gregory Soto and Johan Ramirez struggle 27:25 Endy Rodriguez delivers the biggest swing 30:20 Pirates offense continues its June surge 34:20 Bubba Chandler faces Christopher Sánchez Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Pirates entered 2026 hoping an average offense would be enough to support their pitching. Instead, the offense has become the strength of the team. After finishing 2025 with an 82 wRC+, the Pirates are up to 110 this season, ranking second in baseball and producing at a level comparable to the 1971 Lumber Company. Alex Stumpf breaks down the historic improvement, the depth throughout the lineup and why falling behind no longer feels like an automatic loss. Alex also examines Endy Rodriguez's simplified swing, the early impact of Esmerlyn Valdez and Konnor Griffin, and why unexpected production from the rookies has raised the ceiling of the entire offense. Chapters: 0:00 Comparing the Pirates to the Lumber Company 1:03 The comeback in Philadelphia 4:29 Years of historically bad offense 5:34 Endy Rodriguez's swing adjustment 7:51 The rookies are producing 8:23 IQ Bar 9:51 The offense must carry the Pirates 11:19 Esmerlyn Valdez and Konnor Griffin 14:26 A true pass-the-baton lineup Read more from Alex Stumpf at Book Rule Bucs: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Hour 1 with Joe Starkey: Even the Pirates' wins can be frustrating. The Pirates came back from down 5-0 but the bullpen tried to give the game back until Endy Rodriguez hit a three-run homer. Esmerlyn Valdez hit another home run and has homered in four in a row. We ask AI how it would fix the bullpen.
Hour 4 with Joe Starkey: Endy Rodriguez is putting things together, but his arm isn't completely back yet from injury. Michael thinks Rodriguez is good at blocking the baseball and should be better soon. Michael thinks the Pirates have to give Endy a chance to catch Paul Skenes. This date in sports history, June 30th.
Even the Pirates wins can be frustrating. The Pirates came back from down 5-0 but the bullpen tried to give the game back until Endy Rodriguez hit a three-run homer. Rodriguez is becoming a big story for the Pirates. A fan calls in to complain about Rodriguez's defense.
Esmerlyn Valdez hit another home run and has homered in four in a row. Endy Rodriguez said he was waiting for his friend Chase Shugart to throw a sweeper. Would you trade Jared Jones for Aroldis Chapman? We ask AI how it would fix the bullpen. Joe would trade Jones. Jones has three years of control.
Endy Rodriguez is putting things together, but his arm isn't completely back yet from injury. Michael thinks Rodriguez is good at blocking the baseball and should be better soon. Michael thinks the Pirates have to give Endy a chance to catch Paul Skenes. He thinks a shift could be good. Michael thinks Konnor Griffin could hit as many as 40 home runs in his career.
The Pirates came back and won in a crazy game against the Phillies last night. Poni thinks that there is a chance this is the best Pirates lineup of all time. The Pirates were dead last in runs scored last year, and now they are third in baseball in runs per game. Poni also thinks that the Pirates have the best top-to-bottom lineup in all of baseball when everybody is healthy. The emergence thus far of Esmerlyn Valdez and Endy Rodriguez has been huge.
The Pirates came back and won in a crazy game against the Phillies last night. Poni thinks that there is a chance this is the best Pirates lineup of all time. The Pirates were dead last in runs scored last year, and now they are third in baseball in runs per game. Poni also thinks that the Pirates have the best top-to-bottom lineup in all of baseball when everybody is healthy. The emergence thus far of Esmerlyn Valdez and Endy Rodriguez has been huge. The Pirates are a game over .500, callers chime in to talk about the team. PM Team Tuesday Draft – Greatest Americans of all time.
The Pittsburgh Pirates were one strike away from turning an entertaining, back-and-forth game into one of their best wins of the season. Instead, Gregory Soto allowed a three-run homer in the ninth inning, wasting Esmerlyn Valdez's go-ahead pinch-hit homer and sending the Pirates to a brutal 9-7 loss against the Cincinnati Reds. Jim and Doug break down another failure from the Pirates bullpen, the defensive mistakes that hurt Jared Jones, Brandon Lowe's 20th home run, Endy Rodriguez's continued impact and the baffling way the team has handled Carmen Mlodzinski. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Pittsburgh Pirates have spent years cycling through temporary answers behind the plate. Alex Stumpf believes Endy Rodriguez may have finally ended that search. On today's OffBeat, Alex traces the Pirates' catching situation from Jacob Stallings through Henry Davis and Joey Bart before explaining how Endy has taken control of the position. His simpler swing, improved timing and patient approach are producing better at bats, but Wednesday's win showed that his value goes well beyond the box score. Alex also discusses Braxton Ashcraft's dominant outing, Carmen Mlodzinski's three innings of relief and why the Joey Bart trade reflects Pittsburgh's confidence in Endy. Read more from Alex Stumpf at Book Rule Bucs: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Mitch Keller pitched well but it wasn't enough for the Pirates, as the offense managed just two runs while losing to the Mariners.Endy Rodriguez is off to a strong start, hitting another double, how much of this is legitimate? Or is regression in his future? I break it down here.Also, I go over a couple of pitching promotions, Jack Anker and Irwin Ramirez. Subscribe to the Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the entire Pittsburgh Pirates organization.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeCheck out the YouTube channel for daily videos on the Pirates' organization. www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe
In his weekly Pirates mailbag video, Post-Gazette Pirates insider Colin Beazley answers reader questions. Among them: How will manager Don Kelly and GM Ben Cherington handle the catching situation following the Joey Bart trade that leaves Henry Davis and Endy Rodriguez front and center? Are Jared Jones and Carmen Mlodzinski being handled correctly? Or are they being given too big a say in their usage? What is standing between Konnor Griffin and a healthy return to the lineup? And is DH Marcell Ozuna beginning to figure things out at the plate? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Jason Mackey joins the show to talk about why the Pirates traded Joey Bart for Hunter Stratton, what Pittsburgh will do at the DH spot moving forward, what would have happened with Henry Davis if they hadn't found a trade partner for Bart, what the catching split will be with Davis and Endy Rodriguez, if Jason respects Jeff Passan, who the Pirates could target for trades, where things stand with Carmen Mlodzinski, and more!
Bryan Reynolds carried the Pittsburgh Pirates back from a four-run deficit with four hits and two home runs before Brandon Lowe launched the go-ahead homer in the ninth to complete a wild 6-5 win over the Athletics. Neil and Doug break down Reynolds' huge night, Mitch Keller's polarizing start and the disastrous first-inning defense that nearly buried the Pirates. They also discuss Endy Rodriguez's growing case to become the starting catcher and a bullpen that finally protected a lead, even if Gregory Soto made the ninth more stressful than necessary. In this episode: 00:00 Pirates complete the wild comeback 02:16 Mitch Keller and the first-inning disaster 15:26 The Pirates begin fighting back 18:21 Bryan Reynolds takes over 25:04 Endy Rodriguez, Brandon Lowe and the bullpen The NS9 Postgame Show is presented by FanDuel and powered by Primanti Brothers. Subscribe to North Shore Nine for year-round Pittsburgh Pirates coverage. Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Pirates' tandem of Jared Jones and Carmen Mlodzinski did not work last night, to say the least. Joe Block and Kevin Young went off on the Pirates' decision to waste Carmen Mlodzinski in a blowout loss last night. Poni thinks it is a very bad sign if guys employed by the Pirates are avidly disagreeing with the team's decision making. Endy Rodriguez has been swinging the bat very well as of late. Donny Football Debrief – Falcons QB Michael Penix has not yet been cleared to begin practicing, which likely means Tua Tagavailoa will start for them. A bunch of WPIAL football players have been ruled ineligible for the upcoming season.
The Pirates scored just 26 runs while going 2-4 against the Dodgers and Marlins. Jim and DiNardo discuss how much the offense is missing Oneil Cruz and Konnor Griffin and whether this lineup has enough depth to survive without them. Joey Bart appears close to returning, which creates another decision behind the plate. Will Henry Davis continue catching, or has Endy Rodriguez earned a bigger opportunity with a 126 wRC+ this season? They also break down the Pirates' handling of Carmen Mlodzinski. Using him almost exclusively as a scheduled reliever following Jared Jones limits someone who could become a legitimate high-leverage weapon for this bullpen. @eddiep_photos TICKETS FOR OUR JUNE 13TH TAILGATE: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Northshore9tailgate0613 Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Tyler Callihan hits the first two home runs of his major league career, including a go-ahead three-run shot in the bottom of the eighth.The win stops a losing streak, although the injuries continue to mount as Oneil Cruz hits the IL and Endy Rodriguez leaves the game early.Plus a complete minor league rundown, including another home run from Termarr Johnson. Subscribe to Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the entire Pirates' organization.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeAlso, check out the YouTube channel for daily videos on the Pirates as well. www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe
The Pirates were supposed to be built around pitching, but through early June, it has been the offense carrying them. On today's OffBeat, Alex Stumpf breaks down how Pittsburgh's lineup has become one of the better units in baseball, why Ryan O'Hearn, Brandon Lowe, Spencer Horwitz, Endy Rodriguez, Nick Gonzales, Oneil Cruz, and Konnor Griffin have helped change the identity of this team, and why the pitching staff has not taken the step forward many expected. After a rough series against Atlanta, the question is no longer whether the Pirates can score enough. It's whether Mitch Keller, Bubba Chandler, Paul Skenes, Dennis Santana, and the rest of the pitching staff can get back to being the strength this team was built around. Subscribe to Alex's Substack, Book Rule Bucs: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/ Subscribe to North Shore Nine for daily Pittsburgh Pirates coverage. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Pirates dropped their second straight game in Atlanta, falling 6-3 to the Braves as Braxton Ashcraft was hit harder than we've seen in a while. Jim and Tyler break down Ashcraft's outing, why the starting pitching has become a concern over the last couple weeks, and how the bullpen at least kept the Pirates within reach again. They also get into the offense's chances against Spencer Strider, Tyler Callihan continuing to provide some useful at-bats, Oneil Cruz drawing three walks, Endy Rodriguez having a rough night, and Brandon Lowe leaving late after fouling a ball off his knee. The Pirates now turn to Bubba Chandler with a chance to salvage the series and finish the road trip at 3-3 before returning home to face the Dodgers.Subscribe to North Shore Nine for daily Pirates coverage, postgame shows, prospect talk, and more. TICKETS FOR OUR JUNE 13TH TAILGATE: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Northshore9tailgate0613 Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates ️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4776784802611200 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Pittsburgh Pirates stayed hot with another big offensive night, beating the Houston Astros and moving five games over .500. Neil and Doug break down the Pirates' fourth straight win, Oneil Cruz's huge three-run homer, Endy Rodriguez continuing to force his way into the lineup, Jake Mangum's four-hit night, Brandon Lowe's power, and an offense that keeps finding different ways to produce. They also discuss Bubba Chandler's uneven start, the value of the bullpen giving the Pirates length when needed, and the growing concern around Dennis Santana after another rough outing. Subscribe to North Shore Nine for daily Pittsburgh Pirates coverage, postgame shows, prospect talk, and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Endy Rodriguez is swinging a great bat and has done a good job calling the game. Matt Clement thinks Endy needs to play three, maybe four, days of the week. Matt would not be surprised if the Pirates look into adding a catcher. What it was like for Matt to pitch at Fenway Park with the Green Monster behind you! Matt signed the Green Monster!
Hour 3 with Bob Pompeani, Joe Starkey, and Matt Clement: Matt wasn't surprised that Carmen Mlodzinski didn't follow Chandler because the two were the ones competing for the rotation. Matt thinks now the rope is running out for Dennis Santana. Matt proposes the Pirates trade for Red Sox relief pitcher Garrett Whitlock. Endy Rodriguez is swinging a great bat and has done a good job calling the game. Matt Clement thinks Endy needs to play three, maybe four, days of the week.
Bucco Minute – Another big night for the Pirates last night, beating the Astros 10-6 in Houston. Home runs from Endy Rodriguez, Oneil Cruz and Brandon Lowe. Mike Burrows started for the Astros and did his usual (not great). The guys can't get over how big the Buccos have won a trade. Should the Pirates prioritize Cruz or Lowe if they need to pay someone $200M?
One day after Nick Herbig inked his $100M+ extension with the Steelers, Alex Highsmith missed practice. Steelers PR quickly got ahead of the narrative stating that Highsmith was ‘sick.' If a team approached the Steelers about trading Highsmith in exchange for a 2nd round pick, should they say Yes? Are fans buying the ‘illness' excuse for Alex Highsmith today at practice? One legendary caller said the Steelers are the ‘North Korea of the NFL' because they have an answer for everything. Bucco Minute – Another big night for the Pirates last night, beating the Astros 10-6 in Houston. Home runs from Endy Rodriguez, Oneil Cruz and Brandon Lowe. Mike Burrows started for the Astros and did his usual (not great). The guys can't get over how big the Buccos have won a trade. Should the Pirates prioritize Cruz or Lowe if they need to pay someone $200M?
Paul Skenes had one of his rougher starts as the Pittsburgh Pirates fell 5-2 to the Toronto Blue Jays, continuing a frustrating stretch where the offense once again failed to come through with runners in scoring position. Tyler and Doug break down Skenes looking human for the second straight outing, the Pirates' ongoing issues against left-handed pitching, Don Kelly's lineup decisions, Oneil Cruz's rough at-bat, and the early impressions of Jhostynxon Garcia and Esmerlyn Valdez. They also discuss Henry Davis, Endy Rodriguez, the bullpen, and why this team keeps letting winnable games slip away. TICKETS FOR OUR JUNE 13TH TAILGATE: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Northshore9tailgate0613 Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates ️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4776784802611200 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Pittsburgh Pirates suddenly have a much younger, & interesting roster. Tonight on NS9LIVE!, Tyler and DiNardo react to Esmerlyn Valdez getting promoted to the big leagues and what it could mean for the Pirates lineup. How much should Valdez actually play? Does this move make sense right now? And is this a real opportunity or just the Pirates trying to patch things together after the Ryan O'Hearn injury? We also get into the bigger picture: 20-year-old Konnor Griffin starting at shortstop, 22-year-old Esmerlyn Valdez joining the roster, and 23-year-old Jhostynxon Garcia getting called up earlier this week. The Pirates are sitting in a tough NL Central race, but they've suddenly created a real youth movement at the big-league level. Is that smart development, necessary aggression, or a sign of where the season is heading? Plus, we'll talk through the catcher situation with Henry Davis and Endy Rodriguez holding things down right now, and of course, we'll open with the NS9 Stupid Question. Valdez was recalled from Triple-A on Thursday, while Garcia was recalled earlier this week after Ryan O'Hearn landed on the injured list. Konnor Griffin has also started to settle in after a huge game against St. Louis, giving Pirates fans a very different-looking roster to talk about. TICKETS FOR OUR JUNE 13TH TAILGATE: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Northshore9tailgate0613 Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Pittsburgh Pirates finally snapped out of a rough stretch with a 7-0 win over the St. Louis Cardinals, and Konnor Griffin was right in the middle of it. Griffin went 4-for-5, continued to look more comfortable at the plate, and gave Pirates fans another reason to believe the 20-year-old rookie is becoming a major piece of this team. Tyler and Neil break down Griffin's big night, Carmen Mlodzinski's five shutout innings, Spencer Horwitz continuing to quietly produce, the catching situation with Endy Rodriguez and Henry Davis, and another bullpen performance that somehow stayed clean despite a few stressful moments. They also get into Jhostynxon Garcia's strong first impression, Jake Mangum's role, and why this win felt much bigger after the Pirates' recent skid. Presented by FanDuel. The NS9 Postgame Show is powered by Primanti Brothers. TICKETS FOR OUR JUNE 13TH TAILGATE: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Northshore9tailgate0613 Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
With Joey Bart sidelined by a foot infection, the Pittsburgh Pirates are right back in the middle of a major catching question. Henry Davis has improved defensively, controls the run game well, and has earned trust with the pitching staff, but the offensive production has not followed. Meanwhile, Endy Rodriguez is back in the majors after heating up in Triple-A Indianapolis and immediately showing flashes of the bat that once made him one of the Pirates' most exciting prospects. On this episode of OffBeat, Alex Stumpf breaks down the Pirates' catching room, why Davis' struggles against fastballs are becoming a serious concern, what Endy's return could mean, and why Ryan O'Hearn's injury makes production from the bottom half of the lineup even more important. Subscribe to North Shore Nine for daily Pittsburgh Pirates coverage. Read Alex Stumpf's work at Book-Rule Bucs: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In his weekly Pirates mailbag video, Post-Gazette insider Colin Beazley answers reader questions. Among them: Will GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly consider playing the recently promoted Endy Rodriguez often if he continues to hit? Especially with Henry Davis and Joey Bart struggling at the plate? Would Jhostynxon García be the first to get a call if an injury takes Ryan O'Hean, Oneil Cruz, Bryan Reynolds and/or Jake Mangum out of the outfield mix? Could Konnor Griffin regularly hit second against lefties as he did this week? And what are the chances former top pick Seth Hernandez makes it to Class AA Altoona this year after his recent promotion to Greensboro? Colin tackles those questions and more. This show is presented by FanDuel. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Neither side wants to come out and say what Jared Jones' role with the Pirates will be. Colin thinks Jones will be a starter, but be on a pitch count. Carmen Mlodzinski is the most likely to go to the bullpen. Colin thinks Jones will be activated right around May 26 when Jones is able to come on the injured list. Joey Bart has a foot infection and is too early to tell what the timeline will be. Endy Rodriguez could play for a bit.
Endy Rodriguez is 2-2 with a double and a two-run single. Tyler Kennedy told us that Evgeni Malkin wants to play two years, but Malkin has said one year. Jeff Hathhorn thinks there is a desire on both sides for one season. Alan Saunders is reporting the Steelers won't play on Christmas Eve or Day.