Pirates host Phillies June 6 after 8-2 Astros loss. Bailey Falter (0.76 May ERA) starts; can Bucs bats ignite? Keller needs run support. Crucial series!
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Ahoy, Pirates faithful! It's Friday, June 6, 2025, and while the Bucs had an off day to lick their wounds after a tough loss to the Astros, tonight brings a new challenge and a beacon of hope. The electrifying Bailey Falter, fresh off a dominant May, takes the mound at PNC Park to open a crucial series against the Philadelphia Phillies. The question on everyone's mind: can the offense finally provide some support?
Bailey Falter posted a minuscule 0.76 ERA across six starts in May – a shining light the Pirates desperately need to follow.
The Pirates are looking to shake off a recent skid, having dropped four of their last six. Their most recent outing on Thursday, June 5th, saw them fall 8-2 to the Houston Astros after a frustrating rain delay. Mitch Keller battled but ultimately allowed six runs on eight hits in 6 1/3 innings. A silver lining was Jared Triolo, who managed two hits and scored both of the Pirates' runs. This loss underscored a painful trend: a lack of run support, particularly for Keller, who continues to receive some of the lowest in the majors.
All eyes will be on Bailey Falter tonight. His May performance was nothing short of spectacular, boasting a 0.76 ERA that turned heads league-wide. He's been the stopper the Pirates have needed. However, the offense continues to be a major concern. As of June 6th, the team ranks a dismal 26th in batting average (.226), 29th in runs scored (199), and 29th in home runs (43). Even Paul Skenes, with his impressive 1.77 ERA over his last seven starts, has a 1-4 record to show for it in that span, further highlighting the offensive drought. For the Pirates to turn things around, the bats *must* wake up.
The injury list remains a concern, with key players like Jared Jones (elbow), Joey Bart (concussion), Dauri Moreta (elbow), Carlson Reed (back), and Malcom Nunez (undisclosed) still on the mend. Thankfully, no new injuries were reported on June 6th, and the transaction wire was quiet for the Pirates, with no trades, signings, or roster moves announced. Stability is good, but healthy players returning would be even better.
While the major league club navigates its challenges, there's excitement brewing in the farm system. Top prospect Griffin continues to impress with his athleticism, getting valuable experience both in the infield and outfield. The organization's focus on developing team offense from the ground up, to complement their strong pitching pipeline, offers a glimpse of a brighter future.
Tonight, the Pirates begin a new series against a tough Phillies squad. With Falter on the bump, the pitching matchup offers promise. The key will be whether the lineup can manufacture runs and take pressure off their starters. Facing a division rival always adds a little extra spice, and a series win here could be a significant momentum shifter.
Tonight's matchup against the Phillies is a fresh slate. With Bailey Falter on the mound, the pitching gives them a fighting chance. Now, it's up to the bats to come alive and give him, and the fans, something to cheer about. Let's go Bucs!
