Pirates Look For 4th Win Of 2011

Pittsburgh (KDKA)- Clint Hurdle couldn't have asked for a better start to his managing career with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Tonight, the Pirates will look to James McDonald to win their second road series of the season.

Here are some Bucco news & notes prior to tonight's game:

*Pitching Matchup: James McDonald vs. Kyle McClellan

*In 4 games this season, Walker has produced a team-high seven hits and seven RBI. The last Pirate infielder to produce such totals over a season's first four games was second baseman Johnny Ray, who had nine hits and eight RBI in 1986.

*Jose Tabata currently leads the National League with six runs scored, Walker leads with six RBI and Joel Hanrahan shares the lead with three saves.

*The Pirate's staff ERA of 2.83 currently ranks fourth in the National League.

*A victory tonight or tomorrow would give the Pirates back-back winning series on the road, something they haven't accomplished since the 2007 season after they won 3 of 4 in Colorado and 2 of 3 in Houston.

*James McDonald is making his first start of the season tonight....In his four wins with the Pirates last season, McDonald posted a 1.08 ERA

*McDonald is 1-1 with a 2.61 ERA in five career games vs. St. Louis...Last year, he suffered a 4-1 loss at Busch Stadium, allowing 1 ER in 6 innings.