- Commissioner’s statement on Ventura, Marte
- Ronnie O’Sullivan: Masters champion ‘felt so vulnerable’ in final
- Arron Fletcher Wins 2017 WSOP International Circuit Marrakech Main Event ($140,224)
- Smith challenges Warner to go big in India
- Moncada No. 1 on MLB Pipeline’s Top 10 2B Prospects list
- Braves land 2 on MLB Pipeline’s Top 10 2B Prospects list
- Kingery makes MLB Pipeline’s Top 10 2B Prospects list
- New Zealand wrap up 2-0 after Bangladesh implosion
- Mathews, Pradeep, Gunathilaka to return to Sri Lanka
- Elliott hopes for rain for Poli
Super sub: Joyce steps up with Marte away
- Updated: May 17, 2016
PITTSBURGH — The Pirates knew on Sunday that they would be without one of their best players for a few games. Starling Marte, their .326-hitting cleanup man and Gold Glove left fielder, was headed to the paternity list.
With a deep and productive bench, the Pirates didn’t need to look far for a capable replacement. Matt Joyce stepped into the lineup Monday night and went 3-for-4 with a homer and three RBIs in Pittsburgh’s 8-5 win over the Braves at PNC Park.
Joyce started in right field, batting sixth, and did what he’s done all season when he’s heard his name called. Signed to a Minor League deal at the start of Spring Training, Joyce is hitting .372/.500/.767 with five home runs, 15 RBIs and more walks (11) than strikeouts (nine) in 33 games.
For most teams, he likely would be a starter — at the very least, against right-handed pitchers. But for the Pirates, with their star-studded outfield trio, he’s been one of the best backup plans in baseball.
“I think Joyce is very happy with the opportunity that he’s getting. We’re …
continue reading in source mlb.mlb.com
