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James McDonald and Matt Cain square off as the Pirates visit San Francisco for the Giants' home opener Friday afternoon at 4:35 Eastern.
The Bucs' offense has been horrible so far, but matchups later in the series against Barry Zito and perhaps also former Pirate Ryan Vogelsong might provide the Pirates with some opportunities. Cain, however, is a good pitcher in his prime, and is the recent recipient of the largest contract ever given to a right-handed pitcher.
In addition to McDonald, also starting for the Pirates this series will be Charlie Morton (Saturday at 9:05 p.m.) and Kevin Correia (Sunday at 4:05 p.m.). They'll need to bring their best games unless the Pirates' offense can perk up.
Friday's game will also feature the San Francisco return of catcher Buster Posey, a fan favorite who missed most of last season.
Be sure to check out Bucs Dugout, which currently features a podcast with Giants blogger Grant Brisbee of McCovey Chronicles.