check the mirror

Pitching for the pitiable Pittsburgh Pirates all these years, Paul Maholm is used to disappointment. But today, for a change, it wasn't the Bucs' bats or gloves that let Maholm down. The Greenwood native and former Mississippi State standout has only himself to blame for this latest shortcoming. With a 7-0 lead in the third inning, Maholm couldn't get out of the sixth against the New York Mets, who rallied to win 9-8. Maholm got no decision; he departed after 5 2/3 innings, having allowed eight hits, seven runs (six earned) and two walks. He came in with a 2-7 record but a fine 3.18 ERA for a 26-28 club. Going for his 50th career win, he flat out let it get away. A 7-0 lead? You've got to win that game. Maholm's history with the Pirates isn't good. He's had only one winning season, going 3-1 in six games as a rookie in 2005. He entered this season with a 47-59 record and a 4.48 ERA. The Pirates have been bad for almost 20 years now, so it's been tough for Maholm, a quality left-hander, to find much success in Pittsburgh. One wonders when these parties will part ways.