Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training: Charlie Morton Rounding Into Form
Mar 4, 2014; Lakeland, FL, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher
Charlie Morton(50) throws a pitch during the first inning of a spring training game against the Detroit Tigers at Joker Marchant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
As pitching stints get longer during spring training, we can get a better understanding of who’s primed to get off to a good start once the regular season rolls around.
For the Pittsburgh Pirates, it looks likeCharlie Mortonis a great candidate to spring forward in April.
The 30-year-old right-handed starter tossed three scoreless innings at the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday, allowing only one hit in the process.Pittsburgh prevailed 5-2 at Joker Marchant Stadiumin Lakeland, Fla., to improve to 5-1-1 in the Grapefruit League.
Morton, who projects as the Pirates’ No. 3 or 4 starter this season, has allowed one hit in five shutout frames this spring. His groundball-inducing sinker was effective against a Tigers lineup that included two-time American League MVPMiguel Cabreraand all-star outfieldersTorii HunterandAustin Jackson.
Top position prospectGregory Polancowas the only Pirate with two hits on the day. The outfielder had an RBI double that highlighted a three-run third inning against Tigers starterRick Porcello.
Offseason trade acquisitionJaff Deckerdrove in a run on a squeeze bunt, whileJosh HarrisonandJordy Mercereach had an extra-base hit.Chris McGuinessandAndrew Lambocombined to go 0 for 4 as their first-base battle continues.
MLB hopefulBrandon Cumptonhad difficulty in the fourth when Jackson slammed a two-run homer, but last year’s spot starter still completed his two-inning assignment.Vin Mazzarothrew a scoreless fifth inning despite issuing a walk.
The Bucs get back at it Wednesday in Dunedin against the Blue Jays.Jeff Lockewas scheduled to start for the Pirates, but he was scratched due to tightness in his right side. RightyJay Jacksonwill get the call in Locke’s stead.