The Cardinals have already lost the first game of their double-header with the Cubs today, which means that no matter what happens in their nightcap, the Pirates can make up at least a half-game on the Cards with a win against the Padres tonight. My opinion is that they should do that.
Francisco Liriano starts for the Bucs tonight. With Starling Marte out and Josh Harrison on the DL, now Francisco Cervelli is a late scratch for an unknown reason, which means Chris Stewart is starting in his place. Stewart is fine, of course, but for a club that had no injury issues 72 hours ago, well, things are suddenly different.