The Pirates’ early woes on offense continued Friday night in Los Angeles.

After scoring six runs in three games against the woeful Cubs, the Pirates made it six runs in four games after being shut out by the Dodgers 3-0 Friday night. The Pirates managed two hits against the Dodgers.

The loss dropped Pittsburgh to 1-3.

Starling Marte is hitting .143, Neil Walker .154, Pedro Alvarez .133 and Russell Martin is searching for his first hit.

That might not seem that bad, especially in such a small sample size, but there are two more games to go against the Dodgers.

Then some relief?

Not quite.

The Buccos’ road trip continues against the Arizona Diamondbacks for three games before returning home to face the Cincinnati Reds for three.

After that, the Cardinals arrive in Pittsburgh for three games, then the new-look Braves play at PNC Park for four more.

The Pirates close April on the road against the Phillies (4 games), Cardinals (3 games) and Brewers (3 games).

That’s not a very favorable schedule to start the season.

If you’re looking for a repeat of last season’s early success, the Pirates better get some hitting.

And soon.

– Rick Green (follow me @ETNrgreen)

Spring training starts in less than two weeks and the Pittsburgh Pirates have come to terms with all of their players eligible for arbitration.

The last two, Neil Walker and James McDonald, agreed with the team Thursday.

Walker signed a one-year deal worth $3.3 million, according to an Associated Press report. McDonald agreed to a deal worth a little more than $3 million.

Both players will be counted on by the Pirates this season.

McDonald, who was lights-out in the first half but miserable in the second half, will likely be the No. 3 pitcher behind A.J. Burnett and Wandy Rodriguez.

Walker, who missed time last year with a back injury, gives the Pirates power from the middle infield.

The Pirates will need both to end their string of 20 straight losing seasons.

– Rick Green (follow me on Twitter @ETNrgreen)