The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

But, not in that order.  We like to finish on a positive note, so we’ll start with the ugly, then move on to the bad, and close with the good.

The ugly:

• The Bucs have scored the 2nd fewest runs in the NL.
• -19 in run differential.
• 1-6 against the Reds.
• Averaging .86 errors per game.  Only the Cards are worse in the NL.
• Phil Gosselin and John Jaso have combined for 11 hits in 80 at bats.
• Gosselin and Jaso have 80 at bats.

The bad:

• Pirates are four games under .500 and in last place in the division.
• Gregory Polanco is batting .221 with zero HR’s.  His production is essential to the team’s success.

The good:

• Pirates are only four games out of the division lead.
• Only 2.5 games back from the last wild card slot.
• Pirates went 6-6 versus the Cubs, Cards, and Yankees.  (Maybe not good, but no bad either.)
• Josh Harrison and his .895 OPS.
• Ivan Nova leading a quality starting rotation.