AP Photo/Philip G. Pavely
Few teams in Major League Baseball are currently struggling as much as the Pittsburgh Pirates when it comes to scoring runs. As they begin a three-game series against the visiting Colorado Rockies, the Pirates are facing a challenging offensive drought.
Recent Struggles for the Pirates
Over their past 21 contests, the Pirates have managed to win only 5 out of 16 games, averaging a mere 2.5 runs per game during that span. Shortstop Oneil Cruz has been hitting .239 with three home runs, but the team as a whole has lost four straight games and seven of their last eight.
Rockies’ Frustration
The Rockies can certainly relate to the Pirates’ offensive woes. They currently hold the worst record in the National League at 7-24. In their latest game, a 10-inning, 5-4 loss to the Miami Marlins, the Rockies continued their five-game losing streak. Notably, the Rockies have not won a series this season, and they’ve trailed at some point in each of their first 31 games—a modern-era major league record.
First baseman Elehuris Montero has struggled, going 4-for-28 (.143) over his past seven games. The team’s overall performance has been disappointing, striking out 16 times and going 1-for-11 with runners in scoring position during their latest loss.
Challenges in the First Inning
The Rockies’ struggles have been particularly evident in the first inning. They’ve been outscored 39-15 in the opening frame this season. Despite these difficulties, Colorado manager Bud Black remains optimistic about the team’s morale and effort. He acknowledges that the Rockies are fighting hard but emphasizes the need for clutch hits and better performance on the field.
Pirates’ Concerns
On the other side, Pirates manager Derek Shelton expressed concern about his team’s trajectory after three consecutive road losses against the Oakland Athletics. The Pirates were held to just four hits in their 4-0 loss in the series finale. Outfielder Bryan Reynolds has also struggled, going 4-for-25 (.160) in his last six games. The team’s performance with runners in scoring position has been abysmal, going 2-for-36 (.056) during that stretch.
Hitting coach Andy Haines remains optimistic, believing that the Pirates will eventually break out of their offensive slump. He emphasizes the importance of their work and evaluation of players.
Series Opener
In the series opener, the Pirates will send left-hander Martin Perez (1-1, 2.86 ERA) to the mound. Perez has allowed two runs or fewer in four of his first six starts this season.
Both teams are hungry for offensive production, and this series promises to be an intriguing matchup. Can the Pirates find their groove against the struggling Rockies, or will Colorado turn things around? Baseball fans will be watching closely as the action unfolds.
