Philadelphia at Pittsburgh

It took awhile, but after a sluggish start the Pirates have been playing up to expectations. They could grab their fifth straight series win if they can put this one in the win column vs. cross-state rival Philadelphia. Pittsburgh has won 10 of their last 13 games, and the key has been outstanding pitching. During the 13 game stretch, Pittsburgh has limited opponents to 2 runs or fewer in eight of them, including last night's easy 8-2 decision in the series opener. The Phillies are an ominous 18-42 in their last 60 games when facing an opponent that scored 5 runs or more in their previous game, and they have not been able to solve right-handed pitching where they are a woeful 1-11 in their last 12 against them. On the other hand, the Pirates shine vs. right-handers at 8-1 in their last nine. Make the play on Pittsburgh.