Phillies look to even series against Pirates behind David Buchanan
Jul 5, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher David Buchanan (55) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the second inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
David Buchanan and the Philadelphia Phillies are hoping to get back on track after losing their last two games by evening out their current series against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Phillies have lost the last five games started by Buchanan who has not earned a win in over a month. His last outing was against the Atlanta Braves and he went four innings giving up four runs, but only one of them was earned. In his first year of service with the Phillies, Buchanan is 6-7 with a 3.95 ERA.
In his rookie season Buchanan has already faced the Pirates. Oddly enough the last time he faced Pittsburgh he was matched up against Edinson Volquez, the same opponent he faces Tuesday night. Buchanan took the loss after giving up three earned runs in six innings.
Pirates’ centerfielder Andrew McCutchen hit a two-run home run off Buchanan in their only meeting. Volquez also has an RBI off the Phillies’ starter.
Cody Asche, who was not in Monday’s lineup, hit a solo home run off Volquez and has struck out against him in three at bats.
Philadelphia will be without shortstop Jimmy Rollins who left Monday’s game after scoring the first run of the night. Rollins suffered a hamstring strain after legging out a triple in the fourth inning and was replaced by Freddy Galvis.
Ben Revere went hitless in Monday’s 6-4 Phillies’ loss and is now third in the National League in batting average. His average dropped to .313 and he is also third in the league with 43 stolen bases.
While the Pirates are vying for a playoff spot either as National League Central leaders or a Wild Card team, the Phillies are hoping to move out of the National League East cellar. The New York Mets, winners of their last two games, are 2.5 games above Philadelphia.