PITTSBURGH, Pa. (AP) – Pirates manager Clint Hurdle had a vision when he replaced John Russell three years ago.
Hurdle believed he could help lead the moribund franchise back to the playoffs. The vision will come to life on Tuesday night when the Pirates host the Reds in the NL wild-card game at PNC Park.
Pittsburgh won 94 games during a remarkable regular season, securing the club’s first winning season in 21 years. Hurdle says his team has bigger goals than just reaching the postseason. He says he believes the Pirates are good enough to win their sixth World Series.
The Reds stand in their way. Cincinnati ace Johnny Cueto will start for the Reds. Cueto is 13-4 against the Pirates in his career. Francisco Liriano (16-8) starts for Pittsburgh.