Pirates’ Starting Rotation Must Save Their Season

Braxton Ashcraft delivered the quality start the Pittsburgh Pirates desperately needed, helping them finally secure another series win. Now the rest of the rotation must follow his lead. Alex Stumpf explains why the Pirates cannot rely on their offense or struggling bullpen to carry them through the most difficult stretch of their schedule. Paul Skenes has not been as dominant, Mitch Keller continues to search for his sinker, Jared Jones is still working back into form and Bubba Chandler is trying to turn a corner with his command. With Oneil Cruz and Konnor Griffin sidelined, the Pirates need Skenes, Keller, Chandler and Jones to become the homegrown rotation everyone expected. Alex also discusses Bryan Reynolds’ All-Star case, Braxton Ashcraft’s workload and why Carmen Mlodzinski should be separated from the Jared Jones piggyback role. Presented by FanDuel. Read more from Alex Stumpf at Book Rule Bucs: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/ @eddiep_photos Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.