The (Friday) Rewind, “Whiff-le ball alert” edition

Soooo. … The Bucs warmed up for their Saturday meeting with Max Scherzer by fanning a season-high (in nine innings) 13 times against Joe Ross (Township) and a couple Nationals relievers? There could be a breeze in Nationals Park tonight. … 

A.J. Burnett was only the fourth pitcher in the last three season to allow 14 or more hits while gutting his way through 6 2/3 innings Friday night:

  • May 7, 2015: Tim Hudson, Giants v Marlins (15)
  • May 9, 2014: Brandon Maurer, Mariners v Royals (14)
  • Sept. 6, 2013: James Shields, Royals v Tigers (14)
Seeing A.J. endure that and allow only three earned runs — the last of which required Gregory Polanco to slam into the right-field wall — was one of the most impressive performances I’ve ever witnessed. Guy is always credited with setting a good example, and A.J. definitely walked that talk last night. … 
Clint Hurdle last night said Polanco should be good to go today. The big post-game ice pack on Polanco’s left knee said “No.” … 

I’m not saying that the Buccos offense has been slightly inconsistent, but … After a stretch of 12 runs in seven games, they erupted for an 11-0 win over the White Sox on Monday … and since have tallied 10 runs in four games. … 

For Buccos pitching, even when they lose, the hits keep coming (or not): They have surrendered one home run in the last 86 innings — Geovany Soto’s seventh-inning shot off Gerrit Cole on Thursday. … 

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