Jesse Hahn Unimpressive In Big League Debut, Padres Fall To Bucs

Sep 19, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Chase Headley (7) reacts as Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Neil Walker (18) rounds the bases after hitting a two run home run during the fourth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Padres’ rookie Jesse Hahn struggled in his Major League debut Tuesday night against the Pittsburgh Pirates in the second game of the three game series. Hahn was less than impressive in the 4-1 loss, giving up 4 earned runs, 6 hits, 5 strikeouts, 2 home runs in 3 2/3 innings.

Pirates’ second baseman Neil Walker‘s 11th homer, and third baseman Pedro Alvarez‘s 11th homer gave Pittsburgh an early 4-0 lead. It was all starter Gerrit Cole needed, as he shut down Padres’ hitters allowing 1 earned run and striking out six over 5 2/3 innings.

The Padres’ threatened in the bottom of sixth inning, when first baseman Yonder Alonso‘s RBI single to left field scored Chase Headley. However, Jedd Gyorko ended the rally when Walker robbed him of a single up the middle to prevent any more damage. Closer Jason Grilli finished off the Padres’ in an easy ninth.

Despite the Hahn erratic start, the Padres’ bullpen, led by 37-year former outfielder Jason Lane, kept the Pirates’ hitters in check the rest of the game. The bullpen retired the final fifteen batters and giving the offense a chance to claw back into the game. Lane was called up earlier today when the Padres’ sent down Donn Roach. During his stint in Triple-A, El Paso, Lane was 5-4 with a 4.36 ERA.

The Padres’ hope to end their three games losing streak and salvage series sweep when they face the Pirates again Wednesday afternoon. Ian Kennedy (4-6, 3.42 ERA) squares off against lefty Francisco Lirano (1-5, 4.62 ERA). First pitch is scheduled for 3:40 pm PDT.