PIRATES EDGE NETHERLANDS

Randall Simon (shown above) had three hits and wunderkind Pedro Alvarez had zero, but the Pirates still managed to edge the Netherlands, 5-4, in an exhibition game this afternoon. Check out this powerhouse Bucco lineup:Anderson Machado, SSLuis Cruz, 2BCraig Monroe, DHGarrett Jones, RFPedro Alvarez, 3BAndy Phillips, 1BJeff Salazar, CFRuben Gotay, LFErik Kratz, CYeah, that's what you're left with when a bunch of guys head off to the WBC. And might I add, the smart money in the WBC is not with the Netherlands when they can't even beat the JV Buccos. Nonetheless, the Pirates are now 5-1 and learning how to win. At least that's what I'm telling myself.Non-roster invitee Jones impresses [Pirates.com]Send your news, tips, and links to Mondesishouse@gmail.com.