Jon Niese may be the definition of average, but he's way above average in day games with a 1.80 ERA. He also pitches better at home and has a 2.51 career ERA versus the Giants. Niese rates an edge on Giants' rookie Albert Suarez. The Pirates also have a rested closer, something the Giants don't.

Suarez has a 5.52 road ERA in three appearances, including two starts. He's coming off a start in which he yielded three home runs in 4 2/3 innings on the road against the Rays this past Saturday.

The Pirates have a winning record at home. San Francisco is 7-18 the past 25 times when playing on the road against an opponent that has an above .500 home record.

The Giants also aren't as strong without injured outfielder Hunter Pence.