Pirates crush Rangers 8-3 on June 22, 2025, as Tommy Pham & Spencer Horwitz lead a 5-run rally. See how the Bucs are gearing up for the Brewers series.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The Pittsburgh Pirates are rolling into a new week with some much-needed momentum, capping off their series against the Texas Rangers with a resounding 8-3 victory on Sunday. The bats came alive in a massive five-run fifth inning, giving fans a glimpse of the offensive firepower this team can unleash as they prepare to dive back into divisional play.
Paul Skenes leads the pitching staff with a stunning 1.85 ERA and 106 strikeouts, providing a constant beacon of dominance for the club.
Sunday's win was defined by one explosive inning. With the score knotted at 3-3, the Pirates' offense erupted in the fifth, piling on five runs to put the game out of reach. The charge was led by veterans and newcomers alike, with Tommy Pham delivering a clutch 3-for-3 performance that included two doubles and three RBI. Not to be outdone, Spencer Horwitz was a force at the plate, going 3-for-4 with two doubles of his own, driving in two runs and scoring three times. It was the kind of rally that can energize a clubhouse and provides a positive jolt as the team's record moves to 30-47.
The offense gets a significant boost heading into the week with the return of Bryan Reynolds. The star outfielder was reinstated from the paternity list and slotted right back into the lineup, providing stability and a potent bat that leads the team with 39 RBI. His return prompted the optioning of Billy Cook back to Triple-A Indianapolis. In another recent move, Jack Suwinski was also optioned to Indy after serving as the 27th man during Thursday's doubleheader, reflecting the ongoing roster management as the team seeks its optimal configuration.
There's no time to rest on their laurels, as the Pirates immediately turn their attention to a crucial NL Central matchup against the Milwaukee Brewers tonight. Milwaukee will send right-hander C. Patrick (3-7, 3.50 ERA) to the mound. For the Bucs, it's a chance to make up ground in the division. The power of Oneil Cruz (13 HR) and the leadership of Andrew McCutchen (.264 BA) will be critical factors in this important series.
While the big-league club battles in the present, the future continues to look bright. Top prospect Braylon Griffin is generating significant buzz in the farm system with his elite athleticism and versatility. Splitting time between shortstop and the outfield, Griffin is impressing coaches with his defensive prowess and developmental potential. It’s a reminder that while the team fights for wins today, the organization is actively cultivating the next wave of Pirate talent.
Riding high from a decisive win and welcoming back a core player in Reynolds, the Pirates face a pivotal test against the Brewers. Can the offensive spark from Sunday ignite a winning streak against a divisional foe? Tonight's game will be the first indicator of whether this team can translate weekend momentum into a meaningful mid-season push. All eyes will be on the matchup to see if the Bucs can keep the good times rolling.
