The back end of the pen: The new 7-8-9

Pitching was outstanding during Monday’s victory over the Braves. Thanks to the great arms from the ‘Pen. 

Chris Resop, Evan Meek and Joel Hanrahan have continued to prove what a great asset they are to the Pirates team.

Resop, who the Pirates acquired in early August from the Braves pitched a scoreless inning, allowed one hit, walked two and struck out one. After loading the bases with braves in the seventh, Resop got Prado to hit a dribbler up the third base line for the final out.

In 16 appearances this season he has a 4.80 ERA through 15.1 innings pitched and has allowed just one home run. 

Evan Meek pitched for the first time on Monday since being hit in the hand by a line drive in Milwaukee. Meek gave up one hit and one walked one through a scoreless inning. In 58 appearences this season Evan has a 2.11 ERA, has allowed 48 hits through 68.1 innings pitched, a .195 AVG against and has allowed four home runs all season.

“I had a good side [session] the day before, but you’re not pitching with much adrenaline,” Meek said. “Getting out there and being out for a week, you’d be amazed at how rusty you feel.

“I just tried to stay within myself, tried to throw strikes. I’m just glad we got out of it. Burres did a heck of a job today. To come out of the bullpen and do what he did today, it’s just awesome. It was incredible.”

Joel Hanrahan pitched a one hit scoreless inning and picked up his fourth save of the season. Hinske, who pitched hit for Moylan, as well as Infante both grounded to second. Heyward, who arguably should be the rookie of the year, singled in the ninth but Hanrahan shut down Prado who flew out to right.

Hanrahan continues to lead the team in strikeouts with 83 (has only walked 18) through 58.2 innings. Joel has 17 holds this season and a 3.68 ERA.