Tonight was Steven Brault’s night.
The 28-year-old southpaw was masterful in tossing a two-hit complete game. He allowed just one run in the third inning off of a Tommy Edman single. Brault struck out eight batters and walked just two. Tonight was his first career complete game.
The Pirates snapped their eight-game losing streak to defeat the Cardinals 5-1. They are now 15-34 on the season.
The Pirates’ offense was better tonight than it has been on most nights this year. Gregory Polanco went 2-4 with a home run and double. He also had three RBI. On the season, he is now hitting .146/.199/.331. Kevin Newman also went 2-4 with a run scored. Ke’Bryan Hayes and Jacob Stallings each smacked a double. Most of the offense came in the fourth inning when the Pirates scored four runs.
Tonight was a solid night for the Pirates. They looked like a competent major league ball club. They are now 4-2 against the Cardinals this year. That is enjoyable.
Tomorrow, these two teams will meet in a doubleheader. Trevor Williams will oppose Carlos Martinez in game one at 4:05. Chad Kuhl will start in game two against a TBD starter right after.