As he showed Wednesday against the Cubs, Pirates reliever Mark Melancon is fully capable of stepping into a high-pressure situation in the ninth inning. And, as he told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Thursday, Melancon relishes the opportunity.
"It's so much fun to be out there, closing out the game," Melancon said. "It's my favorite thing."
Melancon has been lights-out as a set up man this season, allowing just one run in his last 17 appearances, and the team clearly feels comfortable with him as a possible backup in case Jason Grilli falters.
"I love the fact that Mark's been battle tested," Hurdle said. "He's had some good opportunities, including some that have not worked out well. He's dealt with adversity. Those have become strengths for him. He is in a good place, personally and professionally. He's taking care of today and what opportunities he has today. Who knows what the rest of this season will provide?"
Melancon had 20 saves in 2011 for the Astros, but just one in each of the last two seasons.