Pirates Insider Podcast

The Pirates used four home runs to beat the Reds in the final game of their series. The long ball has really become a huge weapon for this team. Ryan O'Hearn, Esmerlyn Valdez and Tyler Callihan hit them. Let's take a look at their hot streaks, as well as another solid performance from Mitch Keller, plus trends we've seen in the bullpen. Jason Mackey breaks it all down right here.

It happened again. The Pirates scored seven runs. They even obtained the lead in the eighth inning. But they couldn't hold it against the Reds, suffering a 9-7 loss at PNC Park. Something has to be done about the bullpen, right? Jason Mackey breaks that down, as well as solid days from Brandon Lowe, Esmerlyn Valdez and Bryan Reynolds.

There have been concerns about Paul Skenes' velocity, and there shouldn't be. Let's break down those, as well as what went into the Pirates' 6-4 loss to the Reds on Friday night at PNC Park, gleaning what might be useful for the second half of their season.

The Pirates reached the midpoint of their season with a 5-1 victory over the Mariners Thursday at PNC Park. Bubba Chandler was solid. Henry Davis homered among his two hits. How do those storylines fold into the rest of the season? Also, what are some other questions the Pirates must consider in the second half? Jason Mackey breaks it all down here.