The Grill Man and Friends

Jason Grilli has been nothing short of phenomenal so far in this first month of the 2013 season. He is not throwing the ball by hitters at 93-95 mph, but his placement of the ball has been awesome. Inside, outside, up/down and freezing batters with everything he throws - 6 Saves, 7 IP, 3 H, 11K/3W, AA of .125. His stats last year were off the chart, but I was sold on him when I saw a Root Sports interview between innings last year where he spoke about the honor it was to have his banner flying outside PNC Park. He got his start when Joel Hanrahan was traded to Boston, and the guy who benefitted most besides Grilli was our 8th inning guy Mark Melancon. He too does not blow it by anyone, but his placement has been excellent, and he can throw any of 3 pitches for strikes in any count. Experienced? A younger guy (28) with only 2 years of MLB Service, but he went through college as a Closer, so he knows the territory - so far 11 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 10K/0W. And I think the Pirates are in excellent shape having Jared Hughes, Justin Wilson, and Tony Watson taking turns as the 7th inning guy. Jared was lights out as a rookie last year, but he is leaving his pitches up so far this season, with not as much late drop - hope it gets better.