Stallings' SF gives Virtual Pirates win over D-backs

I will be serving as general manager/manager of the Pirates in a 2020 season simulation along with 29 others using Out Of The Park Baseball. Feel free to check here for regular updates. I realize baseball is a lot less important than what is going on in the world today but perhaps it can provide a diversion for a few moments.

PITTSBURGH – The Virtual Pirates keep on winning and now they are getting lots of national media attention.

Jacob Stallings hit a tiebreaking sacrifice fly in the eighth inning and the Virtual Buccos edged the Virtual Arizona Diamondbacks 4-3 on Thursday night at Virtual PNC Park in the opener of a four-game series.

The Pirates (67-48) extended their lead in the National League Central to 5 ½ games over the Virtual Milwaukee Brewers while running their winning streak to four games.

The Pirates caught a break in the eighth inning when Gregory Polanco reached on pitcher Andrew Chafin’s two-base throwing error. Polanco eventually scored on Stallings’ scoring fly ball.

Adam Frazier broke out of his slump with a three-hit effort. His single in the third inning drew the Pirates into a 3-3 tie.

Brandon Kintzler (4-1) retired all four batters he faced for the win. Keone Kela pitched a perfect ninth inning for his 14th save in 17 opportunities.

Joe Musgrove went 6 2/3 innings and threw 108 pitches while allowing three runs and 10 hits. The big right-hander struck six and did not walk a batter.

Chafin (4-2) was charged with the loss.

The Virtual Corsairs learned earlier in the day that they will be featured on Virtual This Week in Baseball and on the cover of The Virtual Sporting News.

Bench coach Craig Wilson, who has all the bases covered, offered some friendly advice to veteran media relations director Jim Trdinich.

“I told Jimmy T that he needs to be ready for a lot more media covering our games now,” Wilson said. “We’re a big story. He might have to expand the virtual press box.”

Chris Archer (7-5, 3.41) will face left-hander Madison Bumgarner (7-13, 5.18) on Friday night.

 


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