PHILADELPHIA — The Pittsburgh Pirates start a four-game series against their Keystone State foes, the Philadelphia Phillies, on Monday night in Philadelphia.
Both teams enter looking for a burst before the All-Star break after dropping weekend sets.
The Pirates will send right-hander Ivan Nova to the mound in the opener. Nova (8-5, 3.08 ERA) has been one of Pittsburgh’s most consistent starters this season, and he enters the Monday start with a 3.08 ERA and 1.11 WHIP in 16 outings.
Nova earned wins in three of his four decisions in June, including his start against the Rays last Wednesday.