Brault strong in Pirates victory
BRADENTON, Fla. – Josh Bell, Adam Frazier and Corey Dickerson had two hits apiece for Pittsburgh, and Steven Brault pitched 3 2/3 scoreless innings as the Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Detroit Tigers 3-1 Tuesday.
Detroit left-hander Matthew Boyd allowed three runs, two earned, and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings.
The Tigers also announced that right-hander Michael Fulmer might need Tommy John surgery. The operation was recommended following an MRI exam and a second opinion from Dr. James Andrews.
Fulmer, who experienced elbow soreness during a recent bullpen session, will seek a third opinion.
The Pirates’ bullpen looked ready to go. Closer Felipe Vazquez retired all four hitters he faced and struck out the side in the fifth inning. The lefty has allowed one hit and no walks while striking out nine batters in 4 1/3 innings this spring.
Reliever Keone Kela followed Vazquez with a perfect sixth inning. Francisco Liriano needed only 10 pitches to retire the Tigers in the seventh inning.