the REDBIRDS might be in trouble heading to the 'BURGH...BUCCOS just 1 1/2 games back of St. LOUIS have a 5-Piece with the REDBIRDS at PNC w/ a Side of "Let's Play Two"...A CUP of JOE in the SHOW Report 5-Piece from PNC #CARDSbiz #BUCCOSbiz

The NL Central Race just got interesting with the Redbirds coming out of Atlanta checking what's left of their backside after getting swept by the Braves. The Buccos didn't fare much better as they go to Miami and get hit by Marlins as the Pirates lose two of three. Now the Redbirds lead is just 1 1/2 games as they now encounter a long stay on Three Rivers as they either leave Town up in the Central or in second. The Buccos know now is the time to grab the NL Central and with five straight vs the Division leader winning 4 or  or a sweep is on the agenda and nothing else to make a move.

REDBIRDS @ BUCCOS 5-Piece w/ a Side of "Let's play Two"

July 29, 2013 7:05pm ET
STL Westbrook (7-4) vs PIT Liriano (10-4)

July 30, 2013 (DH) Double-Header...Game 1 4:05pm ET
STL  Lyons (2-3) vs PIT Burnett (4-7)

July 30, 2013 (DH) Game 2
STL Lynn (12-5) vs PIT TBD

July 31, 2013 7:05pm ET
STL Wainright (13-6) vs PIT Locke (9-3)

August 1, 2013 7:05pm ET
STL Kelly (1-3) vs PIT Morton (1-2)

It's no mistake it's five games between the Cards and Pirates as Tuesday will be a twilight double-header starting at 4:05pm ET. The Redbirds have three of their best going in the set in Westbrook, Wainright, and Lynn. The Pirates have three of their top four going in Burnett, Liriano, and Locke. Game 1 tonight might be the biggest as that will set the stage for games two through five for both.

Stars at the Dish....

REDBIRDS
C Y. Molina .334 8 HR 54 RBI
LF Holliday team leading 64 Runs
RF Beltran team leading Bombs 19
1B Craig team leading 79 Ribbies n .325 avg

BUCCOS
3B Alvarez team leading 26 HR n 65 Ribbies
CF "Cutch 22" team leading .301 avg n 27 Doubles
LF Marte team leading 65 Runs and 8 Triples
  
Note: Schedule and Numbers from MLB.com

*Pirates...Closer Jason Grilli out with Shoulder Injury for 6-8 weeks

The "Battle for the NL Central 1st Slot"....from PNC Park in the 'Burgh