Phelps puts on show in front of family, friends

PITTSBURGH — For David Phelps, Saturday night was a bit of a homecoming and a family affair for the 29-year-old right-hander.

With roughly 85 family members and friends on hand, Phelps turned in one of the finest performances of any Miami starter this season, striking out nine in six scoreless innings in a 3-1 Marlins win over the Pirates at PNC Park.

After closing out his night by striking out Andrew McCutchen looking at a 90.6-mph cutter to end the sixth, Phelps motioned toward his wife, Maria, and his large cheering section on his way to the dugout.

“I think about where I’ve been in my career and the sacrifices my family has made for me,” Phelps said. “My wife’s family has been so supportive.”

Phelps makes Pittsburgh his home year-round, and for one night, he had his vocal contingent rooting for the Marlins in a game with postseason implications. Miami moved a half-game past the Bucs and 1 1/2 games behind the Cardinals for the second National League Wild Card spot.

“That’s what it’s all about,” Phelps said. “They’ve been so supportive throughout my career, coming to Pittsburgh, where they’re all diehard Pirates fans. That …

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