This one had everything.
Cubs manager Joe Maddon was ejected during the game’s first at-bat Friday. A pair of scissors played a part on the pitcher’s mound. And three outs from victory, the Pirates bullpen melted. Right-hander Juan Nicasio and left-hander Tony Watson combined to allow six runs in the top of the ninth, as the Cubs stole the series opener and ran away with a 9-5 win at PNC Park.
Manager Clint Hurdle’s strategic bullpen usage backfired late. After using his best reliever, Felipe Rivero, against the top of the Cubs lineup in the eighth, protecting a one-run lead, Hurdle turned to Nicasio in the ninth.