Ben Cherington, the Pirates' general manager, is optimistic about the team's pitching staff despite recent performance setbacks. Cherington acknowledges that the results haven't met expectations, but he remains confident in the group's potential. He attributes the inconsistent performance to a combination of factors, including a lack of consistency in run prevention and a bit of bad luck. Cherington believes that the solution lies within the organization, emphasizing the daily efforts put into improving the pitching staff.
One key statistic highlights the Pirates' struggles with runners on base, allowing an OPS of .782, which is the ninth-highest in MLB. Conversely, when the bases are empty, Pirates pitchers have a .627 OPS, the second-lowest in the league. Cherington acknowledges that they are getting beaten with runners on base and emphasizes the need to focus on controllable aspects like preparation, game-calling, and execution. He also acknowledges the role of bad luck in the team's performance.
Cherington highlights the need for consistency and trust in the pitching staff. He mentions the importance of looking externally for potential additions to support the current staff, especially as they move into July. The Pirates' pitchers have a 4.22 ERA, ranking 18th in MLB, and only four teams have a worse ERA over the past month. While Paul Skenes has been a bright spot, the team needs more from Mitch Keller, who has a 5.14 ERA, the fifth-highest among qualified starting pitchers.
Bubba Chandler has shown improvement in his recent starts, with a 3.27 ERA and a decrease in walks. Cherington praises Chandler's athleticism and power, noting that he needs to stay within himself to produce good results. The manager also addresses the unusual situation of Oneil Cruz being in the lineup and then being placed on the injured list with non-displaced fractures in his left hand. Cherington explains that the fractures were not initially detected on the initial X-ray, and Cruz's symptoms improved over time before the injury was confirmed.
Cherington also discusses Wilber Dotel's right lat muscle strain, caught early, and Konnor Griffin's recovery from a shoulder injury. He mentions Isaac Mattson's return to the team, showcasing a revamped pitch mix. Cherington concludes by expressing optimism for the team's future, emphasizing the organization's efforts to improve the pitching staff and the potential for a turnaround.
