It's Independence Day. The last time Pirates closer Mark Melancon gave up a run, Memorial Day was just a twinkle in the eye of Father Time.
Melancon surrendered nothing but a walk and weakly hit infield single to the Indians on Saturday in tying Glen Perkins for the major league lead with 26 saves. He has not allowed a run in his last 25 appearances.
Things did get a bit hairy with two outs when he pitched around torrid Jason Kipnis for a walk and Francisco Lindor dumped a seeing-eye dribbler to short for a hit. But Melancon induced tough Michael Brandley to ground out to secure the victory.
His 1.62 ERA is at its lowest point since April 13.