Yes, it was THAT Pedro Alvarez who ripped a run-scoring double to the opposite field in the ninth inning of Thursday’s exhibition game between the Pirates and Red Sox, starting a three-run rally that resulted in a 3-2 win over Boston. Alvarez, considered by many to be the best hitter in last year’s amateur draft, is in his first spring training with Pittsburgh, hoping to make an impression. He was beaming when he got into the clubhouse after the game.

“Finally,” he grinned from his corner locker.

“Finally?” smirked teammate Eric Hinske. “It was your second at-bat this spring.” Read the rest of this entry »