Jake Arrieta tossed a gem for the Phillies
Jake Arrieta twirled an absolute gem on Thursday night at Citizens Bank Park as the Phillies walloped the Pirates, 7-0, to improve to four games over .500.

Arrieta was brilliant, striking out 10 while surrendering one hit over seven innings. It was the 14th double-digit strikeout game of his career and his fastball on average was a full mile-per-hour faster than it was during his previous start (92.7 vs. 91.9).

"Three starts in, to be able to do that, it's a good sign," Arrieta said afterward (see video below). "Combined with spring training I've had five or six starts, so I was a little behind but now I'm caught up."



The Pirates lone hit off Arrieta came in the second inning as Francisco Cervelli hit a ball to the right of J.P Crawford who made an outstanding diving stop but was unable to make a throw to first.

Rhys Hoskins hit a line drive homer for the Phillies in the second and Cesar Hernandez drove in three runs later in the frame with a single to center. It was the 500th hit of his career.

Yacksel Rios and Victor Arano combined to pitch the final two innings for the Phillies to secure the victory.

Jameson Taillon failed to get through the second inning for the Pirates, surrendering five runs on four hits and two walks over 1 2/3 innings.

The two clubs resume their four-game set Friday night with Ben Lively set to oppose right-hander Ivan Nova.
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Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PGordonPBR

BY PATRICK GORDON
Managing Editor
pgordon@philadelphiabaseballreview.com

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