The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Atlanta Braves 8-5 last night to open a four-game series at PNC Park. Outfielder Matt Joyce had three hits, including his fifth home run of the season. Joyce playing for Starling Marte, who has been placed on paternity leave. Pirate starting pitcher Jon Niese allowed two runs over six innings to pick up his fourth win of the season. Niese allowed five hits and struck out six. Pirates reliever Cory Luebke allowed three runs in the eighth inning to the Braves, but Mark Melancon closed out the game with a perfect ninth inning for his 12th save of the season.
The Bucs host the Braves again tonight at 7:05pm. Juan Nicasio will start for the Pirates. Hear the game on WISR 680am beginning at 6:40pm.
Pirates second base prospect Alen Hanson made his major league debut last night. He struck out in a pinch-hit at-bat.
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