Pirates' Gerrit Cole: Takes loss despite quality start Friday

Cole (5-6) gave up an earned run on six hits and a walk over six innings in Friday's 4-0 loss to the Phillies. He struck out seven.

Analysis:

He looked considerably better than in his first start off the DL last Saturday versus the Nationals, notching first-pitch strikes on 18 of the 26 hitters he faced and inducing 14 swinging strikes overall. Cole also stayed away from the long ball once again, marking his sixth consecutive appearance without surrendering a round-tripper. The 25-year-old will look for some run support, and his first victory since May 20, when he takes on the Brewers next Friday.