Pirates starting pitcher A.J. Burnett throws seven shutout IP for win

Pirates starting pitcher A.J. Burnett (3-1) threw seven shutout innings Sunday, scattering three hits, fanning seven and walking five to earn the win over the Cubs.

Burnett tossed 103 pitches and lowered his ERA to 1.38 in the outing.

"I do believe it's the best delivery of his career, at least since we've seen him," Hurdle said to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "It's just connected. He's holding his back side. He's getting out with perfect extension … with the angle he wants. Everything is coming out of the same arm slot."

Burnett has not allowed more than two runs in any of his eight starts this season, becoming the first Pirates starter since 1900 to do so.

Burnett returns to the mound for his next start Sunday, May 24, against the Mets.