Much-maligned Mark Melancon, whose job appeared to be in jeopardy early this season, has rebounded with a fine run. He posted his sixth save of the year for the Pirates by retiring the Cardinals in order Saturday night in front of a sellout crowd at PNC Park.
Melancon, whose ERA was 8.53 after blowing a save with a three-run ninth on April 21 as some were complaining about decreased velocity, has responded with seven straight shutout innings. He has allowed just three hits and one walk during that stretch.