Like the Pirates, the Padres have a winning record (22-21) despite having a negative run differential (-16). After jumping out of the gate hot, the Dads have cooled off as of late, losing their last three and 10 of their last 16.
The Pirates are entering the series 21-19, four games out of first place in the Central and a game behind the wild card pace.
Thursday, 10:10 p.m. — Trevor Williams (2-1, 3.40) vs. Eric Lauer (2-4, 5.75). TV: AT&T SportsNet, MLB Network (out of market)
Friday, 10:10 p.