Pirates’ Three Takeaways: Oneil Cruz Learns Accountability Lesson (+)

Oneil Cruz clearly needs some baserunning lessons. Misadventures by the rookie shortstop proved pivotal for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 10-inning losses to the Philadelphia Phillies both Friday and Saturday.

Cruz did get a lesson in accountability Saturday night, though, following a 2-1 defeat at PNC Park.

In the 10^th, Cruz was the automatic runner at second base – the Manfred Man – to start the inning. He was promptly picked off by Corey Knebel.

Fellow rookies Bligh Madris and Cal Mitchell then grounded out to end the game, extending the Pirates’ losing streak to five games.