Fourth inning

Not a bad start here at McKechnie, where the Pirates and defending champion Phillies are tied 1-1 heading into the bottom of the fourth.

Word through the press box is this is a title match, and if the Pirates win, they are the new world champions. I wonder if manager John Russell knew that when he decided to start Chris Bootcheck? In his defense, Bootcheck cruised through the first inning.

I'm kidding of course. This is non-title match, much like when Rocky fought Drago in Rocky IV. That was different, however - Rocky had to forefit his title because the bout was non-sactioned. This is simply spring training, where the games don't count.

Quick recap - the Phillies took the lead when Raul Ibanez poked a single to left, plating Jimmy Rollins in the top of the third. The Pirates drew even in their half when Freddy Sanchez doubled down the right-field line, allowing Nyjer Morgan to score from first.

Ex-Pirate Ronny Paulino is catching for the Phillies. This guy lit up McKechnie Field two springs ago - and was dealt to Philly for back-up catcher Jason Jaramillo in the offseason.