The Pittsburgh Pirates avoided a series sweep by defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks 5-4 Wednesday. Jameson Taillon went seven innings, allowing two runs on six hits. Felipe Vazquez earned his 12th save despite allowing two runs in the ninth. He walked three batters, but still closed out the victory. Jordy Mercer had two hits and drove in three runs. Mercer hit his fourth home run of the season.
The Pirates are off today, then begin a 10-game home-stand Friday when they host the Cincinnati Reds.
The Milwaukee Brewers have taken back over the National League Central Divison after taking the final two games in their three-game series with the Chicago Cubs. The Brewers beat the Cubs 1-0 Wednesday, and lead Chicago by 1-1/2 games. The Pirates, at 33-35, are eight back. The Bucs host the Brewers beginning Monday.