Pirates look to extend winning streak vs. Cardinals

The Pirates look to extend their winning to streak to four games after a weekend sweep of the Reds. James McDonald is on the bump.

I'll be watching the game tonight from high up (I do mean high up) in the press box at PNC Park.

Pitching Matchup:

Notes:

- The Cardinals' starting five turned in an 0.23 ERA the second time through the rotation.

- Lance Lynn had the 9^th highest rate of 3-pitch strikeouts in 2012 (PA>500), 37 3pK in 745 PA, 5%.

- James McDonald has posted game scores of 71 and 44 in his two previous starts.

- The Pirates rank 27^th in average innings pitch per start, 5.2.

- Cardinals are 62-37 all time at PNC Park, the most wins of any opponent at the park.

Lineups: (wRC+ explanation)

Notes:

- Starling Marte is 2^nd in the NL in hits, 17, and tied for first in multi-hit games, 7.

- Slash line: Cardinals .260/.309/.398 .707 OPS; Pirates .203/.275/.299. .574 OPS

- St. Louis 7-5, 1st place; Pirates 6-6, 1 GB