The Pittsburgh Pirates (30-27) hope to continue their success at PNC Park this season when they host the Kansas City Royals (24-32) on Saturday evening in the second matchup of a three-game interleague series. Pittsburgh defeated the Royals 4-2 on Friday night, marking their sixth win in their last seven home contests. After struggling mightily at home in recent years, Pittsburgh is 17-11 this season at PNC.
James McDonald (5-2, 2.14 ERA), one of the best pitchers in the big leagues since May 1, takes the mound on Saturday for the Pirates. McDonald has the second-lowest ERA in baseball since that time, at 1.54, and is currently riding a three-game winning streak.
The Royals will send Vin Mazzaro (2-0, 2.25 ERA) to the hill to oppose McDonald. Mazzaro has not fared well against National League teams. He is just 0-5 with a 4.60 ERA in eight starts against the NL.
For more on the Pirates, check out Bucs Dugout. For more on the Royals, there's Royals Review. Still not enough baseball for you? Head on over to SB Nation's MLB Hub Page, Baseball Nation, for all the latest news from all 30 MLB teams.