Another meltdown

The Pirate infield contemplates another bullpen failure as John Grabow warms up - AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar

Maybe I should stop attending Pirate games. The last two times I have been to PNC Park, the Pirates have turned sure victory into heart-wrenching defeat. The last time it was a 7-1 lead turning into a 9-8 loss to the Diamondbacks. Yesterday, the Bucs blew a 4-0 lead and fell 5-4 to the Dodgers.

Tom Gorzelanny was stellar again through six, but tired in the 7th inning. He finished with an official line of 6.2 innings, 3 runs, 7 hits, 2 walks, 2 strikeouts. Jason Bay and Adam LaRoche provided most of the offense, as each belted solo home runs against Brad Penny. However, Salomon Torres allowed a two-run home run to Andre Ethier and the Dodgers' bullpen held the Pirates to only one single over the final three innings to preserve the victory.

My thoughts:

• In 2004-2006, Torres before the All-Star break: 3.82 ERA, 73/49 K/BB. In 2004-2006, Torres after the All-Star break: 1.88 ERA, 116/47 K/BB. Not much has changed this season.
• One of my new favorite places to sit at PNC Park is any row in section 301, seat 1. It's a long way from the field, but the view to your right is excellent and there is a nice breeze off the river. I think that will be my spot for sweltering afternoon games.
• Jason Bay is fun to watch when he is on one of these hot streaks. He is hitting everything right now.
• Four days until I visit Yankee Stadium.