Pirates Take Two From Cubs : Leyland’s Move Pays Dividend; Morrison Sparks Second Win

Jim Morrison said he wasn’t upset when he was lifted for a pinch batter in the 17th inning of the suspended game, before Barry Bonds delivered a game-winning single in a 10-8 victory.

Morrison came back in the regularly scheduled game with four hits including a home run Monday to lead the Pittsburgh Pirates and Rick Rhoden to a 10-7 victory over the Chicago Cubs.

“I understand, I figured it was going to come,” said Morrison. “Barry made the most of it. It was good for Barry to get the hit.”

Manager Jim Leyland didn’t have to defend the move since it provided the Pirates with a victory in the game that had been suspended because of darkness after 13 innings April 20 with the score tied.

“I know (pitcher Dave) Gumpert can be tough against right-handers and Barry has been swinging the bat real good,” said Leyland. “I just had a certain feeling that Barry had a better chance in that situation. Jim showed what a professional he is by bouncing back in the second game.”

Bonds and Mike Diaz also did some bouncing in the regularly scheduled game. Bonds started the seven-run, second inning with his 11th homer and Diaz capped it with a three-run homer, his seventh.

The two decisions gave the Pirates a 9-1 record against the Cubs this season. Rhoden, 12-7, increased his record to 4-0 against the Cubs this year and 17-6 lifetime although he left after allowing 10 hits in six innings.

Morrison was 4 for 5 in the later game with three runs-batted in. He led off the ninth inning with his 15th homer, tying his highest season total.

Morrison and Diaz each singled in a run in the first inning of the regulation game and Bonds opened the big second with his 11th homer. A double by Rhoden, a walk and a single by Bobby Bonilla loaded the bases.

One run scored on a wild pitch by loser Jamie Moyer, 3-3, and Johnny Ray and Morrison each singled in a run before Diaz hit his seventh homer.

The Cubs scored a pair in the fourth on doubles by Leon Durham, Thad Bosley and Shawon Dunston.