The 2015 World Series reminded everyone just how important pitching is as the dominant rotation of the Mets was matched up with the relentless bullpen of the Royals. The Pirates are well aware of this, though, as their pitching has been a major part of the resurgence as a contending team.
Behind the strong one-two punch of Gerrit Cole and Francisco Liriano, the Pittsburgh Pirates were able to get the most of guys like A.J. Burnett, Charlie Morton and J.A. Happ to help carry the team to the postseason for the third season in a row.