"For our guys to swing the bats today the way they did in a big ballpark, I think that was a feel good for the offensive side of our game, " Hurdle said.

WSJ: Liriano Ks 9 in Pirates debut, beats Mets 11-2

However, Grant, so often starved of luck himself, will feel both he and his side were worthy of the good fortune.

BBC: West Ham 2-1 Birmingham