Pittsburgh Pirates Podcast: Michael McKenry Back to Breakdown SD Series & More

The Pittsburgh Pirates nabbed one from the San Diego Padres as Mitch Keller’s dominant Sunday performance not enough in series finale.

The Rum Bunter Radio crew is back to break down the weekend series between the Pittsburgh Pirates and San Diego Padres as the guys are rejoined by Michael McKenry of AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh.

To begin the show the crew jumps into a conversation on lineup consistency and what they expect from Derek Shelton in the coming weeks.

What will it take for Diego Castillo to play everyday? After Kevin Newman’s IL placement room may be available for the youngster to get his shot as an everyday middle infielder.

On a roster slotted by both veteran and young talent, where do the Pirates find consistency, and when will the lineup truly begin to settle?

Only time will tell, but with steady production from Ke’Bryan Hayes the top half of the lineup has found much consistency of their own.

After three quality starts, and a thrilling one run performance in Sunday’s matinee, Pirates fans have reason to feel comfortable about Mitch Keller’s future. Although the hot word of the day, consistency, is one that Keller has struggled with mightily.

How soon until another Keller collapse? Or is this lights out version of the Pirates’ former first round pick the one that is here to stay?

One thing is for certain, regardless of confidence, Mitch Keller’s stuff is in a whole new ballpark.

To close out the show the trio previews the Bucco’s upcoming series’ with the Tigers and Reds, and explain why picking up wins in these series are crucial to long term success.

For all of the latest updates in Pirates baseball, be sure to follow Rum Bunter on Twitter (@rumbunter), along with Michael McKenry (@thefortmckenry).

Batten down the hatches, clear the decks, episode 84 of Rum Bunter Radio is here!