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Grading the Pirates' first half
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About the writer
Rob Biertempfel is the Pirates beat writer. He can be reached via e-mail. Also check out Biertempfel's blog, Pirates Q&A or follow him on Twitter.
Ways to get us
The following is an evaluation of the Pirates in the field, the coaching staff and the front office for the first half of the 2008 season.
Grades
Outfield: A --Strong play from three legit All-Star candidates.
Infield: C-minus -- Slumps + injuries + errors
Catcher: B -- Ryan Doumit has been awesome. Ronny Paulino, not so much.
Starting rotation: D-plus -- The plus belongs to Paul Maholm.
Bullpen: B-minus -- Beware: All those innings will catch up with them.
Coaching staff: B -- Russell has earned and kept players' respect. Kudos to hitting coach Don Long.
Front office: B --- The toughest tests are yet to come. The trade deadline awaits.
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- Utley, Lee help Phillies stave off elimination in WS
- MLB takes closer look at meetings
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