Pittsburgh Pirates series takeaways vs. Washington Nationals

Jul 25, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher A.J. Burnett (34) reacts in the dugout against the Washington Nationals during the fourth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Game Three: A.J. Burnett (8-3, 2.44 ERA) vs. Gio Gonzalez (7-4, 3.93 ERA)

Result: Pirates lose 9-3

Winning Pitcher: Gio Gonzalez (8-4, 3.83 ERA)

Losing Pitcher: A.J. Burnett (8-4, 2.68 ERA)

• What went right:
  • Francisco Cervelli had a multi-hit game, going 2-4 with an RBI.
  • Andrew McCutchen drove in a run. He went 1-4 with an RBI.
  • Starling Marte threw out Jose Lobaton at home plate.
  • Aramis Ramirez made his re-debut as a member of the Pirates.

• What went wrong:
  • A.J. Burnett did have a particularly strong outing, lasting only 5.2 innings, giving up five runs on 11 hits and striking out eight.
  • Deolis Guerra was not good in relief of Burnett, going 1.1 innings, allowing two runs on two hits.
  • Ian Desmond tormented the Pirates some more, going 2-3 with a home run, two RBIs, a walk and two runs scored.
  • Michael Taylor had a big game from the lead-off spot, going 4-5 with three RBIs and a run scored.

Middle relief really hurt the Pirates in this game and while losing any game is frustrating, the Pirates going for a series win with Gerrit Cole on the mound is something every Pirate fan would gladly take.

Next: Game Four: Gerrit Cole vs. Joe Ross