The Pittsburgh Pirates are fighting for first place in the National League 's Central Division . They have endured 18 straight losing seasons and were not expected to do well this year . New manager Clint Hurdle promised to turn the Pirates around when he took over before this season . The Pirates start a key series against the Cardinals back in Pittsburgh .
The Pittsburgh Pirates are fighting for first place in the National League 's Central Division . They have endured 18 straight losing seasons and were not expected to do well this year . New manager Clint Hurdle promised to turn the team around when he took over before this season . The Pirates start a key series against the Cardinals Friday in Pittsburgh .