Pittsburgh Pirates road trip report card for June 20-25

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Jun 25, 2017; St. Louis, MO, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Jordy Mercer (10) is unable to make a play during the second inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kane-USA TODAY Sports /

In conclusion

Overall, this was a successful road trip for the Pirates that, ultimately could have been more than it was. Yes, the Bucs went 4-3 against two division rivals. But they could have easily been 5-2 or even 6-1. The biggest problem plaguing this baseball team at the moment is relief pitching.

As mentioned above, the Pirates only 100% trustworthy reliever is Felipe Rivero. Sure, Juan Nicasio and Wade LeBlanc have been solid for the most part, while Edger Santana and Jahn Marinez have the potential to be beneficial in the ‘pen. At the end of the day, however, a team that is (somehow) in contention which the Pirates are, needs to have strong relief pitching. As good as Rivero is, he is one man, and he cannot do it alone no matter how badly Pittsburgh media and fans want him to.

Aside from that, the Pirates offense and starting pitching have both shown flashes and brilliance, and both aspects should improve once Jameson Taillon gets settled in and Starling Marte returns from suspension.

Next: A Look At The Pirate Offensive Leaders In June

For right now, The Pirates are a below average team that is in contention thanks to a below average division How long that lasts remains to be seen.

Overall Grade: B-

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