Pirates' David Freese: Continues solid season Thursday

Freese went 2-for-4 with two RBI and scored a run in Thursday's win over the Padres.

Analysis:

With Jung Ho Kang struggling and a lefty starter on the mound, manager Clint Hurdle elected to use Sean Rodriguez at first base and keep Freese at third. It was the right call, as the veteran finished off a fine series against the Padres, going 5-for-11 over the three-game set. Freese continues to prove his value and is now hitting .283/.363/.450 with 45 RBI and 51 runs through 98 games. He's on pace to have one of the best seasons of his eight-year career.