Charlie v Andrew Cashner; Lineup & Notes

Today's Game - Charlie Morton (6-2, 4.30) v Andrew Cashner (3-9, 4.06) in the series ender. After a hot start, Charlie has been quite human the last three outings, losing 2-of-3. It'd be nice to see him back on his game. He's been strong against the Friars, with a lifetime slate of 4-1 with a 2.65 ERA in six career starts. In an earlier matchup, Charlie won a 5-2 decision over Tyson Ross at Petco Park.

Cashner is a bit of a disappointment after a strong 2014 campaign, but he's been solid in his last couple of starts, featuring a 95 MPH heater but no strong breaking stuff. He's been mentioned as a guy that SD could dangle at the deadline, so every outing is an audition. The righty hasn't seen Pittsburgh since 2013, when he lost a 3-1 decision and came back for a 2-0 victory. The game starts at 7:05 and will be on Root Sports and 93.7 The Fan. And yes, expect a passing shower or two.

Cutch has been flyin' high (photo Shelley Lipton/Pirates)

Today's Lineup - Gregory Polanco RF, Neil Walker 2B, Cutch CF, Jung-Ho Kang 3B, Fran Cervelli C, Pedro 1B, Jordy Mercer SS, Sean Rodriguez LF, Charlie P.

Fran's back and as expected, Starling isn't. Bucs may have to think DL for him; don't want a short bench for the Card series. Otherwise, usual lineup. SD is minus Justin Upton, who has oblique soreness.

• The Pirates are looking for their tenth sweep; they already lead the majors with nine broomings.
• San Diego has lost four straight games and was held to two runs or fewer for the seventh time in eight games.
• Sixes rule: the Bucs are 40-21 when the starter goes 6+ innings; likewise, they are 41-4 when leading after six innings.
• MiLB features LHP Stephen Tarpley, who just twirled a six-inning no hitter for the WV Power.