The Oakland Athletics pulled off a narrow victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates, edging them out 4–3 at PNC Park. This win improved the Athletics’ record to 72-81, firmly placing them in 4th in the AL West, while the Pirates fell to 65-88, remaining at the bottom of the NL Central.
The sweltering heat in Pittsburgh was certainly a factor, with temperatures soaring to 100 degrees. A gentle 5 mph breeze blew out to right field, offering minimal relief to the players and fans alike.
Hot Bats in the Heat
Both teams showed their offensive capabilities early, with the Pirates seizing a quick advantage. They plated all three of their runs in the first inning, putting the Athletics on the back foot right from the start.
The Athletics, however, demonstrated persistence, responding in the fourth inning with a run of their own. The fifth inning saw the Athletics take control, scoring three crucial runs to secure their lead.
Butler played a pivotal role for the Athletics, going 1 for 3 with a homer and three RBIs. Kurtz also contributed significantly, adding a solo homer to the Athletics’ tally.
Pitching Performances
On the mound, Luis Severino navigated the Athletics through five challenging innings, allowing seven hits but only three runs, one of which was earned. His resilience on the mound was complemented by solid bullpen work from Alvarado, Basso, Sterner, and Kelly, who held the Pirates scoreless for the remainder of the game.
Pirates’ starter Mitch Keller struggled to maintain his early lead, surrendering four runs on four hits over five innings. Despite his best efforts, the Athletics’ hitters found the gaps at the right moments.
The Pirates’ bullpen did their part to keep the game within reach, with Sisk, Lawrence, Nicolas, and Mattson combining for four scoreless innings. They allowed no hits and struck out three, showcasing their ability to halt the Athletics’ offensive momentum in the late innings.
Pirates’ Missed Opportunities
Despite collecting ten hits compared to the Athletics’ four, the Pirates failed to capitalize on their opportunities. Bryan Reynolds stood out with two hits and an RBI, while Horwitz added a run-scoring double.
Tommy Pham and the bottom of the Pirates’ lineup couldn’t find the necessary breakthrough, leaving valuable runners stranded on base. Their inability to convert these chances into runs ultimately cost them the game.
With the loss, the Pirates’ record at PNC Park fell to 42-36, highlighting the challenges they’ve faced at home this season. Meanwhile, the Athletics remain balanced in road games, now holding a 39-39 record away from home.
Looking ahead, the Athletics will aim to carry this momentum into the rest of their series against the Pirates. For the Pirates, regrouping and focusing on their offensive conversion will be key as they continue to compete for pride in the NL Central.
