AJ v Ross

AJ Burnett (5-8, 3.18) takes on Tyson Ross (3-5, 2.62) tonight. Since going the distance in early August, Burnett has given up leads in his last two outings, surrendering 11 runs in 10 IP. AJ's not had much luck against the Padres. In seven starts, he's 1-5/4.93. Ross, after a slow start to the season, went on the DL with shoulder problems. He came back, strengthened his wing in the pen, and now he's 3-1 with a 1.32 ERA in five starts. His slider is his wipeout pitch.

The game starts at 10:10 and will be aired on Root Sports and 93.7 The Fan.

Pirate lineup: Starling Marte LF, Neil Walker 2B, Andrew McCutchen CF, Pedro Alvarez 3B, Russ Martin C, Garrett Jones RF, Gaby Sanchez 1B, Jordy Mercer SS and AJ Burnett P.

Marte is back after sitting a day with a hand injury. Jones is in right with Gaby at first, so JT sits as a manger's decision

Padre lineup: Will Venable RF, Alexi Amarista CF, Yonder Alonso 1B, Jedd Gyorko 2B, Chase Headley 3B, Nick Hundley C, Jaff Decker LF, Ronny Cedeno SS and Tyson Ross P.

• AJ has 2124 career strikeouts, which ranks third among active pitchers behind Andy Pettitte (2412) and C.C. Sabathia (2359). 
• Justin Wilson made his debut here exactly one year ago today. He faced five batters; two got hits and three fanned.
• The Bucs are thought to be in on Cuban first baseman Jose Dariel Abreu, a ball mashing righty, or at least considering him.