Pittsburgh Pirates: Pitching, Newcomers Struggle & More Takeaways From Series Loss Against Cleveland

The pitching struggled, the newcomers struggled, and more takeaways from the Pittsburgh Pirates losing two of three against the Guardians

Things continue to get worse for the Pittsburgh Pirates and it didnt have to be this way. When this team had the best record in the National League at the end of April, everything was there for the taking. Especially in a mediocre at best division.

But Ben Cherington's internal projections said this team wasn't ready. Called them a 4th place team. Well, right now, they're a 5th place team, aka last place. At least last place is something Cherington is very familiar with. In his first seven seasons as an MLB general manager, Cherington's teams have finished last in their division six times, and all signs point toward 2023 making it seven times in eight seasons.

After their latest series loss the Pirates are now 11-17-1 in series played this season. A come from behind victory on Wednesday afternoon ended their post-All-Star Break losing streak, however, the team's slide continues as they are now 42-54 on the season.

Before looking ahead to the off day and a trip to Anaheim, let's take one more look back at the Cleveland series. Here are takeaways from the Pirates dropping yet another series, this one against the Guardians.