May 23
McDonald allowed one run on four hits in seven innings, walking two and striking out eight in Tuesday's 3-2 loss to the Mets.
Advice: McDonald has evolved into arguably the most consistent pitcher on one of baseball's most surprising staffs. The 27-year-old who once had major issues throwing deep into games because of his command has worked into the seventh inning in five of his last six starts while becoming a legitimate strikeout pitcher.
May 22
McDonald threw seven solid innings Tuesday against the Mets, allowing one run on four hits and two walks while striking out eight. The Pirates lost, but McDonald didn't receive a decision.
Recommendation: McDonald certainly has looked very good this season, and he did again in this one. The key for him has been throwing his his breaking balls for strikes. However, he's never pitched this well before, and it's fair to wonder whether the control problems he's always suffered from will recur at some point.
May 22
RHP James McDonald threw seven strong innings -- one run, four hits, eight strikeouts -- Tuesday night in the Pirates' 3-2 loss to the Mets at PNC Park. He dropped his ERA to 2.51 and extended a season-long stretch of holding every opponent to three or fewer earned runs. "J-Mac is starting to emerge as legit," pitching coach Ray Searage said. "He's getting ahead, staying ahead and putting them away. He's kept three-ball counts to a minimum."
