The Dodgers got a rare explosion of offense, erupting for a 10-3 win over the Pirates at PNC Park in Pittsburgh. The Dodgers scored four runs in the sixth inning, all with two outs, thanks in large part to a three-run home run by Matt Kemp. Then, just two innings later, the Dodgers plated five more tallies, putting the game out of reach.
Kemp's home run off Kevin Correia followed a parade of two-out hits in the top of the sixth inning by Jamey Carroll, Aaron Miles, and Andre Ethier. That gave Ted Lilly a 4-0 lead, and was like manna from heaven for an offense that had scored four runs in a game just four times in their last 13 contests. Lilly gave two runs right back, but left with a 4-2 lead.
The Dodgers put the game away with a five-run eighth inning, a wild inning which featured 10 batters, four hits, and three walks, including a bases-loaded walk to relief pitcher Matt Guerrier. It was the first major league RBI for Guerrier, in just his third major league plate appearance, and just since June 2005.
All eight Dodger starting position players scored at least one run tonight, as the Dodgers reached double figures in runs for just the second time all season. It was more than enough support for Ted Lilly, who picked up his third win of the season, allowing two runs in six innings.
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