Pirates' Mike Burrows shines in 1st MLB start (3-0 win vs Astros, June 4). Keller faces Valdez next (June 5). Can Bucs win the 2025 series finale?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
What a night for the Buccos! Last night, rookie Mike Burrows delivered a performance for the ages, securing his first MLB win as a starter and shutting down the potent Houston Astros offense. The 3-0 victory snapped a two-game skid and has the Steel City buzzing. Now, the Pirates look to carry that momentum into Thursday's series finale, with Mitch Keller getting the nod against the formidable Framber Valdez.
Mike Burrows, after Tommy John surgery, delivered a gem: 5 1/3 scoreless innings, five hits, six strikeouts. Welcome to the show, kid!
Let's talk about Mike Burrows. Making his return to a starting role after the long road back from Tommy John surgery in 2023, the rookie right-hander was simply masterful on June 4th. He carved up the Astros lineup for 5 1/3 scoreless innings, allowing just five hits while fanning six. His changeup was particularly nasty, generating six whiffs on nine swings. It wasn't just a win; it was a statement that Burrows is here to stay and has likely solidified his spot in the rotation. Seeing him earn that first MLB win as a starter was a truly special moment for him and the fanbase.
The good vibes from Burrows' performance need to translate into run support for Mitch Keller (1-7, 3.73 ERA) tonight. He's got a tough assignment against Astros ace Framber Valdez (5-4, 3.12 ERA). Keller has pitched better than his record suggests, and a series win against Houston would be a massive confidence booster. The offense showed signs of life in the 3-0 win, with Oneil Cruz and Spencer Horwitz each collecting two hits. Andrew McCutchen and Isiah Kiner-Falefa provided the crucial RBIs. More of that, please!
Speaking of run prevention, David Bednar slammed the door for his seventh save, a welcome sight for Pirates fans. The bullpen, anchored by Bednar, has been a key factor when the team wins. Defensively, Ke'Bryan Hayes once again showed why he's a Gold Glover with a critical play to help Burrows escape a sixth-inning jam. These are the kind of complete team efforts the Pirates need more consistently.
Since Don Kelly took the helm as manager on May 8, the Pirates have posted an 11-13 record. While not a blistering pace, there's a sense that Kelly has stabilized the clubhouse and is committed to giving young talent, like Burrows, meaningful opportunities. The team seems to be responding, and the 'keep the line moving' offensive philosophy is being preached from the majors down to the minors. No major roster moves were announced today, June 5th, indicating a belief in the current group to get the job done.
It's impossible to talk about Pirates pitching without mentioning the almost unbelievable tough luck Paul Skenes has endured. The phenom has pitched at least eight innings in three starts this season, allowing a minuscule total of four runs and striking out at least eight in each of those outings. Astonishingly, he's taken the loss in all three. It underscores the offensive struggles that have sometimes plagued the team, even when the pitching is lights out. Meanwhile, down on the farm, prospects like Termarr Johnson and Lonnie White Jr. continue to impress with their athleticism and development, offering hope for sustained future success.
With Keller on the mound tonight, the Pirates have a golden opportunity to capitalize on the momentum from Burrows' gem and take the series against a tough Astros team. Let's hope the bats stay alive and the defense remains sharp. Keep an eye on PNC Park – this could be a good one!
