Thursday Getaway Day: Tyler Anderson Closes v Kyle Hendricks

Today's Game: The match begins at 12:35 and will be carried by AT&T SportsNet, MLB Network (out of market) and KDKA 101 FM/1020 AM. 

Lineup: Adam Frazier 2B; Ben Gamel LF; Bryan Reynolds CF; Gregory Polanco RF; Erik Gonzalez 3B; Will Craig 1B; Michael Perez C; Kevin Newman SS; Tyler Anderson P. Strike out four times one day, bat cleanup the next; such is the state of the Pirates roster.

Michael Perez is behind the dish today - image AT&T SportsNet

Pitchers: LHP Tyler Anderson  (3-4/4.73) finishes up against RHP Kyle Hendricks (4-4/4.47). In his past two starts, Anderson has given up 13 runs and five dingers in 10 innings (he surrendered five in 59 IP last year) after a strong start. so we'll see where he settles in. He's 1-2 against the Cubbies, though his last outing against them two weeks ago was strong, going eight innings and giving up two runs on four hits. Hendricks has put a horrible April behind him by limiting long balls, but his only bad outing this month was against the Bucs, losing 6-5 and giving up all the runs (four earned) in five innings. He's 0-2/4.50 against Pittsburgh this year in three starts.

Notes:

• Ben Gamel has gone 7-for-18 (.389) with a pair of doubles and a triple in his last five starts.
• Ka'ai Tom (wrist) is running and taking BP.
• The Pirates have lost five straight, 8 of 9 and are 6-17 for May.

Tomorrow's Game: The Rockies come to town for three games. The opener starts at 6:35 and will be aired by AT&T SportsNet & 93.7 The Fan. Mitch Keller goes for the Pirates.