Article:The Jolly Roger is Raised for the First Time This Year?

The Jolly Roger is Raised for the First Time This Year
You know what that means...the Pirates were victorious today! Who did they defeat? The mighty Lancers of Manatee Community College, that's who. Now, before I actually get into what happened on the field, let's try and figure out what the heck a Lancer is. Wikipedia : "A lancer ( uhlan) was a cavalry soldier who fought with a lance :" Ok, so what's a lance? "A lance in the original sense is a light throwing spear, or javelin." Great. Im still wondering why they aren't just called the Manatees, but whatever. The Bucs won their annual spring scrimmage with the Lancers, 5-0, with Cuban defector Yoslan Herrera starting and getting the win. The Bucs only allowed 3 hits, but nobody who pitched is likely to make the Opening Day roster. At the plate, Doug Mientkiewicz (2RBI) and Steve Pearce both went 2 for 3. Obviously, no pitchers gave up any runs, including 1st-round-pick Dan Moskos, who retired the side in order but didn't record a K. The Bucs face the Phillies in the real spring opener tomorrow, with Tom Gorzelanny facing Kyle Kendrick ( who thought he was headed to Japan a few weeks ago..).

Sadly, Myron Cope died today. RIP to a Pittsburgh legend who was a great announcer to listen to and an even better guy.

Pitt-Cincy tonight. Pitt REALLY has to win this one. Pitt is at home, facing team they already lost to, probably a team they are better than, and most importantly, Pitt needs to end a 3 game skid. Game is on at 7:30, FSN. Here's a letter of desperation from Jamie Dixon, asking for a good Zoo crowd tonight. He calls tonight the most important game of the season so far. As I said, the Panthers really need this one. Pitt is also encouraging fans to bring Terrible Towels to tonight's game in honor of Cope's death.

Pitt women got a nice OT win at home over #13 WVU last night. It also seems like that win locks up an NCAA berth for the Lady Panthers.