The Pittsburgh Pirates Pedro Alvarez had a miserable June, but came alive in July.  He entered the month with a .160 average.  He was striking out at an amazing rate with 22 K’s in his 46 at-bats.  He had two doubles.  He was slugging .196.  Chants of “K-dro” were heard throughout PNC Park.

Alvarez didn’t quite make a big splash rookie debut like some of his peers in the Pittsburgh sports scene.  Alvarez did carry a modest

Go Bucs.

Most everyone who has put on a baseball uniform knows it feels special.  Really special.  There is nothing like it. It’s unforgettable.  

It’s almost as fun as realizing that you have been given a free pass to destroy those brand new white pants with the irritating elastic.  It’s every Moms nightmare.  I vividly remember turning white pants into San Diego Padres khaki by the second game.  Sorry Moms, it’s just what ballplayers do and another reason why kids love baseball. Filth is fun.

Growing up we always thought of being a big leaguer in those black and gold unis.  How great would that feel?  The joy of putting on a professional uniform is something I can’t say I could ever describe.  I really can’t.   It must be a gratifying feeling for professional players.

Washington Life was at the Nationals Dream Foundation Gala.  Nyjer Morgan was in attendance as alter ego Tony Plush.  Gentleman.  What a picture.  Heh, at least Matt Capps doesn’t have to worry about playing for a loser any longer, he is now a Twin.  Enjoy the pic after the jump.

Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Ross Ohlendorf was drilled with a line drive off his temple in the first inning against the Rockies Wednesday night.  Ross graduated from Princeton and has a brain that is the largest in Major League Baseball.  Stuff like that doesn’t faze Ohlendorf, he only went down to a knee for a moment.  If you have a good sense of humor click continue….  

The West Virginia Power have a player who has been on a tear recently. His name is Aaron Baker from the state of Texas. Baker fits the state motto well as he carries a big bat for the Power.

He has a big swing at the plate which has produced some generous production for the Power. He currently is tied for third in the SALLY League HR standings, just three off the pace.  We think with some work, he could be a nice addition to Bradenton by the end of the season. But can he climb through the Pirates ranks in time to help the core?

If he continues to improve against left handing pitching (just 20-for-85, but a .506 slugging), especially working on reducing some strikeouts, if his swing could stay entact enough to keep the power but improve contact, we think he has a shot.  The question remains, where will Alvarez be playing by the time Baker could be ready?

Baker is an exciting player to watch both at the plate and in the field.  He can flat out play some defense.  He was also one of the few WV players that seemed to be enjoying themselves on the field. Check out the Aaron Baker picture show.

Aaron Baker has been convicted of murdering baseballs thrown by A ball pitchers.

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Hagerstown Suns Memorial Stadium

West Virginia Power (Pirates) versus Hagerstown Suns (Nationals)

The West Virginia Power were staked to a 4-1 lead thanks to 

Everyone knows it's pretty, but PNC hosts some of the funniest fans in baseball. Here's proof.

PNC Park is beautiful. We discovered something new about it this weekend and put together a quick list of things you weren’t aware of at the park.

The debate rages between Ninjas and Pirates, but this post is about Jarek Cunningham.  Scouting the Sally is a great website that provides a look at many of the players in the South Atlantic  League.  Of course, the Pirates have an affiliation with the West Virginia Power which plays in the SAL. 

Mike Newman was impressed by Jarek Cunningham.  But

Could RHP Daniel McCutchen be returning to the Pirates?

In a season with more twists than a cat on a hot tin shack,

Major League managers are paid to do a number of things.  Everyone knows what is happening in Pittsburgh is downright embarassing.  It’s been a long time since a winning club has been on the field.  But last night was especially embarassing.  It is upsetting because these Pittsburgh Pirates had a shot at beating one of the best pitchers in the NL. 

But the manager didn’t