Pirates Secure 8-4 Victory Over Tigers in Doubleheader Split
In a decisive 10th inning, Isiah Kiner-Falefa delivered a two-run single, propelling the Pittsburgh Pirates to an 8-4 victory over the Detroit Tigers on Thursday. This win allowed the Pirates to split the doubleheader after falling 9-2 in the earlier game.
Riley Greene's impressive four RBIs led the Tigers to their initial triumph, setting the stage for a competitive second game. The Pirates, however, were determined to bounce back.
With the game tied at four in the 10th, pinch-hitter Ke'Bryan Hayes ignited the inning with a single to right field, bringing home pinch-runner Tommy Pham from second base. The Tigers challenged the call, leading to A.J. Hinch's ejection after his protests were dismissed.
Following Hayes, Nick Gonzales added a single, and a sacrifice bunt advanced both runners into scoring position. An intentional walk to Jared Triolo loaded the bases, setting up Joey Bart for an RBI single that pushed the score to 6-4. Kiner-Falefa then sealed the deal with a single to left, driving in two more runs.
During this pivotal inning, tensions flared as a group of fans was ejected following a heated exchange with Pham.
Pirates ace Paul Skenes showcased his skills on the mound, allowing just two runs and three hits over six innings while striking out nine batters and walking five.
The Pirates struck first when Gonzales launched a solo homer off Tigers opener Tyler Holton. Triolo followed suit with a two-run shot, extending Pittsburgh's lead to 3-0. Andrew McCutchen added to the advantage with another solo homer in the third inning, making it 4-0.
The Tigers responded in the fifth with Gleyber Torres hitting a two-run double, and Colt Keith tied the game with a two-run homer off Isaac Mattson in the seventh inning.
Controversy arose in the fifth when an inning-ending double play was overturned. Trey Sweeney was initially called out for interference against Gonzales on a grounder by Keith. After a review, umpires reversed their decision, allowing Keith to reach first and Jake Rogers to return to second base. Torres capitalized on this opportunity with his two-run double.
The game experienced delays, starting 30 minutes late due to a rain delay from the first matchup. Light rain began in the ninth inning and intensified, resulting in a 75-minute stoppage with one out remaining.
Looking ahead, Pirates right-hander Mike Burrows (1-1, 4.24 ERA) is set to face Rangers right-hander Jacob deGrom (6-2, 2.19) in their upcoming three-game series at home. Meanwhile, Tigers right-hander Jack Flaherty (5-7, 4.03) will take on Rays right-hander Shane Baz (6-3, 4.54) in Tampa, Florida.
