The Pittsburgh Pirates fell 3-2 Wednesday night to the Miami Marlins ensuring at best a series split.
In the game, it was setup man Tony Watson (1-1) who allowed the game-winning run on an Adeiny Hechavarria double that scored former Pirate Miguel Rojas.
The Marlins had a 2-0 lead Christian Yelich batted in a run with a fielder’s choice and Jonathon Niese had a wild pitch to plate Martin Prado.
Niese had a no-decision allowing the two runs on six hits in five innings. He did not have the ground ball outs that occurred in recent starts, as that figure was down to five.
Marlins starter Adam Conley had his way with the Pirates allowing two runs in six innings. While Conley walked three batters, he struck out nine.
Pinch-hitter Matt Joyce singled off Mike Dunn on a 3-2 pitch which scored both Francisco Cervelli and Josh Harrison.
After giving up the lead, Watson gave way for the Marlins to bring in closer A.J. Ramos.
The end result was much smoother sailing from Ramos, who earned his 17th save of the season.
Up next
This four-game series concludes Thursday night when Juan Nicasio (4-4, 4.79 ERA) takes on Wei-Yin Chen (4-3, 4.37 ERA). Nicasio is 0-1 with a 4.11 ERA in six career appearances (two starts) against the Marlins. A loss would mean the Pirates have lost consecutive series.
Photo credit: @Marlins
