Sunday, December 14, 2008

Pirates hijack Phils Season with LDS sweep

Cy Young hopeful Lefty Steve Carlton could not protect a one run lead as the Bucs rallied to take game 1. Carlton gave up 6 run in 6 innings of work, but he could not silence the potent Buc bats. Doc Ellis got the win, but was not stellar either. Dave Cash and Rich Hebner each had 3 hits for the Lumber Company. The big hit came from veteran pinch hitter Bill Mazeroski, who singled in Al Oliver for what turned out to be the winning run. Ramon Hernandez pitched a scoreless 9th to notch the save.

Philadelphia's starting pitching, which was so consistent during the regular season again faltered as Tom Underwood gave up 4 runs in 4 shotty innings of work. Pittsburgh's Steve Blass also yielded 4 runs, but he went the distance and his offense posted a 6 spot. Interestingly Philadelphia outhit the Bucs, but could not piece them all together. Light hitting Gene Alley knocked in 2 runs in the 2nd with a two base hit.

The series headed back to Pittsburgh with the home town team up 2 games to none. Three Rivers Stadium was rocking and the Bucs did not disappoint as they soundly eliminated the #1 ranked Phils from the post season. HOF'er Mike Schmidt (2) and All-Star Larry Bowa (3) were responsible for ALL of Philly's hits on the day. The Pirates had a well balanced attack with Al Oliver netting 3 hits and 2 RBI's. After starter Bob Moose tired in the 5th, veteran right hander Bob Miller came on to throw 3 scoreless innings, which effectively ended Philly's chances. The Pirates have been "lights out" under new interim manager Stu Geller, who has piloted them to a 6-2 record, which includes the play in game victory over STL.

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