Pirates starting pitcher Charlie Morton struck out a career-high 11 batters Wednesday at Tampa Bay. Unfortunately, he was opposed by Rays ace David Price, who also struck out 11 and was just a tad better in a 5-1 win for Tampa Bay.
Morton (4-9) bounced back nicely Wednesday following a horrendous first inning. The Rays sent eight players to the plate in the first and totaled three runs on a Ben Zobrist RBI triple, Jordy Mercer fielding error on Evan Longoria hit and Kevin Kiermaier sac fly.
But those were the only runs Morton allowed on the afternoon, as he finished his day with six scoreless innings. He had multiple strikeouts in the second, fourth and seventh innings. He struck out the side in the seventh.
The right-hander was charged with three runs (two earned) on four hits and one walk in seven innings. He has at least six strikeouts in five straight starts.
Morton will be back on the mound Wednesday against Arizona. He is 2-3 with a 2.22 ERA in seven home starts.