A pitcher’s performance at the plate is often an afterthought in MLB. In the National League, they’re usually regarded as an automatic out, and in the American League, a pitcher won’t get the opportunity to pick up a bat. That said, it’s a huge boost when your guy in the nine slot is able to contribute.

Francisco Liriano rarely had the opportunity to pick up a bat until he joined the Pittsburgh Pirates as a free agent in 2013. He began his career in 2005 with the Minnesota Twins and due to the designated hitter, he only accumulated 17 at-bats through 2012.

As a member of the Pirates, he was forced to stand in at the plate. He recorded just eight hits in 108 at-bats (.074) through his first two seasons in Pittsburgh. He improved last season, hitting at a .169 clip but was still a relatively easy out.

Maybe all it took was a few seasons swinging the lumber to help him adjust, but whatever it is, Liriano has become a legitimate offensive threat in Pittsburgh. With another hit and RBI Tuesday night against the Colorado Rockies, Liriano has driven his batting average up to .348 in 23 at-bats. He’s also been contributing in clutch situations as he’s accumulated four RBIs.

Sure, it’s just a side note, but it’s worth recognizing because it has contributed to the Pirates boasting the second-best offense in baseball. If he can just figure things out on the mound and be a consistent No. 3 pitcher, there’s no reason Pittsburgh can’t compete for at least a fourth straight Wild Card berth. It’s unlikely they’ll catch the Chicago Cubs in the NL Central, but it is only May. We’ve certainly seen stranger things happen.