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Pirates Fun Facts: James Resue became
the second pitcher in 2008 to win 5 games, and not win Cy Young. This is the first time in HFWB history two
or more pitches have won 5 games and not won Cy Young. The Pirates are the second winningest franchise in HFWB history
(20-12, .625%), tied with the Rays (20-12). Jesse Reksc is the only pitcher to throw a no hitter in the playoffs.
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Box Scores |
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Pirates 2008 Schedule |
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Boxscores |
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Team Roster |
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2008 Team Leaders |
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Franchise History |
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Division Titles: 2 (2007, 2008) |
Team Captain/Owner: James Resue | | |
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As expected, the Pirates led the league in runs scored. That type of offense propelled them to their second
straight Lamb Division title. After losing Nick Sutter to free agency, the Pirates snagged former Cardinal Zac Longo. Zac
will fit right into this powerful lineup. These guys also have a very solid defense. Longo brings some speed to the outfield
that will fit nicely next to gold glove winner Ryan Skibinski. Oh and you can't forget their big clean up hitter Dan Ciarmiello.
Dan led the league in batting average and crushed six long balls in only seven games played.
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The Pirates only achilles heel was their pitching. Despite James Resue having a career year on the mound, he could be wild
at times. The Pirates pitching staff led the league in walks allowed with 189. With an average of 17.2 walks allowed
in 11 games played, it puts that much more pressure on their offense. These guys have the potential to be lights out pitchers,
as we saw with Reksc and his no hitter. A little control, and they would have the best rotation in the league hands down.
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After reaching the finals in 2007, the Pirates fell 1 game
short of making it there again in 2008. Their offense couldn't capitalize on their team's good pitching, as they
lost a couple of close games. Yet, just like last year, these guys are favorites to eventually take the title in 2009.
They boast the best offense in the league, especially after adding Zac Longo. If their pitching can come around and limit
the walks, the title is all but theirs.
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 July 24th, 2008 Jesse Reksc threw a no hitter vs. the Blue Jays in game 2 of the LDS. Jesse would also go on to
strike out 16 batters, as the Pirates swept the Jays away in the first round.
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 The Pirates acquired speedster Zac Longo from the Cardinals. Zac can hit for both power and average. His ability
to also be a spot starter will help out this ball club down the stretch. This could be one of the best off season acquisitions
this league has ever seen.
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