The Pirates crushed the Mets 9-2 on June 29, 2025, after a massive late-game rally. See how Ke'Bryan Hayes and Andrew McCutchen led the charge to victory.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
That's how you end a homestand! The Pittsburgh Pirates turned a tense Sunday afternoon affair into a laugher, exploding for six late runs to dismantle the New York Mets 9-2. The victory not only sealed a crucial series win but sent the PNC Park faithful home buzzing after a dominant finish.
A tight 3-2 contest became a 9-2 laugher in the blink of an eye, thanks to a six-run late-inning explosion that showcased the lineup's potential to strike at any moment.
For six innings, this was anyone's ballgame. The Pirates clung to a narrow 3-2 lead, and every pitch felt critical. Then, the floodgates opened. Sparked by a relentless attack, the Bucs' offense came alive, piling on runs and leaving the Mets shell-shocked. Key hits from veterans Andrew McCutchen and Bryan Reynolds were central to the barrage, breaking the game wide open and reminding everyone of the firepower this lineup possesses when it clicks.
Long before the late-game fireworks, Ke'Bryan Hayes was the offensive catalyst. The third baseman was locked in, delivering two crucial RBI singles. His first knock helped build the early lead, and his second, coming in the sixth inning, provided the initial breathing room that set the stage for the later explosion. It was a textbook performance from Hayes, showcasing his ability to produce in high-leverage situations and drive the offensive engine.
While the offense grabbed the headlines, Bailey Falter's performance on the mound was the foundation of the win. The crafty lefty navigated the Mets lineup effectively, limiting them to just two runs and keeping his team in the driver's seat. By holding the line, Falter gave his offense the chance to find its rhythm. He earned his sixth win of the season, improving to a solid 6-3 record and continuing to be a reliable anchor in the starting rotation.
Ending a successful homestand with such an emphatic series win provides a major boost of momentum. The Pirates showed resilience, clutch hitting, and solid starting pitching—a formula for success they'll look to carry on the road. As they pack their bags, the team can feel confident that they have the pieces to compete with anyone, especially when the bats come alive like they did today.
