Pittsburgh Pirates Cap Off Strong Road Trip With a Series Victory in Minnesota

Apr 25, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates left fielder Phillip Evans (24) and center fielder Bryan Reynolds (10) and right fielder Gregory Polanco (25) celebrate their victory against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: David Berding-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 25, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates left fielder Phillip Evans (24) and center fielder Bryan Reynolds (10) and right fielder Gregory Polanco (25) celebrate their victory against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: David Berding-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 24, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher Richard Rodriguez (48) delivers a pitch to the Minnesota Twins in the ninth inning at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: David Berding-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 24, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher Richard Rodriguez (48) delivers a pitch to the Minnesota Twins in the ninth inning at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: David Berding-USA TODAY Sports /

Pirate Bullpen Dominates the Series

Due to the success of their starting pitchers the Pittsburgh Pirates did not need to go to their bullpen frequently over the weekend. That said, when the Pirate bullpen was summoned they performed.

In 9 innings of worked this week the Pirate bullpen allowed 2 runs. However, only 1 of these 2 runs were earned. The ‘pen allowed 4 hits, walked a batter, did not allow a home run and struck out 16.

It has been a group effort from the Pirate bullpen this season. Richard Rodríguez has a 20 game scoreless streak dating back to last season, which is the longest in all of baseball. Kyle Crick, who pitched on Saturday afternoon, has not allowed a run this season.

Righty Duane Underwood Jr. has been proving his worth. Sam Howard, Clay Holmes, Chris Stratton and David Bednar have all pitched well, too.

Prior to the season the Pirate bullpen was identified as a potential strength for the team. Thus far, the bullpen has been just that. Look for the bullpen to only continue to be a strength for the Pittsburgh Pirates as the season progresses.