In a battle under the scorching heat of Oriole Park at Camden Yards, the Baltimore Orioles squeezed out a 3–2 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates. This victory improves the Orioles’ record to 68-77, while the Pirates’ struggles continue as they drop to 64-82.
The game unfolded under a clear sky with temperatures soaring to 100 degrees, adding an extra layer of challenge for both teams. Phil Cuzzi led the umpiring crew, with Jonathan Parra, Chad Fairchild, and Clint Vondrak manning the bases.
Early Offensive Action
Both teams came out swinging, with the Pirates taking an early lead by scoring a run in the first inning. The Orioles matched their energy, immediately responding with a run of their own in the bottom of the first.
The Orioles added another run in the second inning, showcasing their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Meanwhile, the Pirates managed to tie the game with a run in the third inning, setting the stage for a competitive remainder of the game.
Pitchers’ Duel
Orioles’ starter Cade Povich worked through 5.67 innings, giving up two runs on five hits while striking out six batters. Although he conceded a home run to Alexander Canario, Povich kept the damage under control.
Pirates’ starter Johan Oviedo matched Povich’s efforts, also pitching 5.67 innings and surrendering two runs while striking out five. Oviedo’s disciplined performance kept the Orioles’ batters in check, preventing them from gaining a more significant advantage.
Decisive Seventh Inning
The Orioles grabbed a crucial run in the seventh inning, which would prove to be the difference-maker. Colin Holderman, who was tagged with the loss, allowed a run in his one inning of work, tipping the scales in favor of Baltimore.
Grant Wolfram earned the win for the Orioles, delivering a solid inning of relief, allowing one hit and striking out a batter. His effort helped stabilize the Orioles’ bullpen during a pivotal stretch of the game.
Closing out the game, the Orioles’ bullpen was effective, with relievers Kyle Strowd and Keegan Akin combining for two scoreless innings. Akin’s performance was particularly noteworthy as he maintained his impressive 3.20 ERA.
For the Pirates, Canario stood out offensively with two hits, including a solo home run, and an RBI. Jared Triolo also contributed with two hits, keeping the Pirates competitive throughout the game.
On the Orioles’ side, Jackson Holliday and Jud Fabian both delivered two hits, bolstering their lineup’s production. Emmanuel Rivera, Coby Mayo, and Dylan Beavers each contributed an RBI, providing the necessary firepower to secure the win.
Despite a valiant effort by the Pirates, the Orioles’ late run proved decisive, allowing them to edge out the victory. Manager Tony Mansolino, in his interim role, continues to guide the Orioles as they navigate the latter part of the season.
Looking ahead, the Pirates will aim to regroup as they head to Washington to face the Nationals. The Orioles, meanwhile, will travel to Toronto for a series against the Blue Jays, seeking to build on this hard-fought win.
