Gotta Feel Bad For Joel Pineiro

Game # 72?? Tue. June 17, 2008 Royals 2??? Cardinals 1 Joel Pineiro extended his winless streak to 6 games, but through no fault of his own.? He was phenomenal, allowing only 1 run in 7 innings of work.? It was an old fashioned pitcher's duel.? It was a 1-1 deadlock until the Royals went yard off Ron Villone in the 8th inning.? Here is my analysis of the game: Performance of the Game:? Joel Pineiro What Went Wrong: 1.? Not enough offense - The Cardinals were 5 for 30 (.167BA).? It is just a different team without Pujols in the lineup.? His presence forces the opposing team to approach the entire lineup differently.? And without him, the Cardinals just aren't as strong. What Went Right: 1.? Izzy - Izzy pitched a perfect inning, which is a great step in the right direction for him. 2.? Joel Pineiro - Anytime your starter goes 7 innings and only allows 1 run, you are in a position to win ballgames.? You can't expect much more from him.? I think Pineiro is underrated as a member of this rotation.? He works quickly, hits his spots, varies his speed, mixes his pitches, and gives you innings. The loss puts the Cardinals at 42-30, 12 games over .500, 3 1/2 games behind the cubs.