The Pirates shut out the Cardinals 5-0 on July 2, 2025, as Mitch Keller's gem capped a perfect 6-0 homestand and extended a 31-inning scoreless streak.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
What a time to be a Buccos fan! The Pittsburgh Pirates put an exclamation point on a flawless 6-0 homestand Wednesday, blanking the St. Louis Cardinals 5-0 to complete a dominant three-game sweep. The victory marks the team's sixth straight win, a season high, and sends a clear message to the rest of the division that something special is brewing on the Allegheny.
The most telling number of all? 31. As in, 31 consecutive scoreless innings for the Pirates' pitching staff.
It wasn't just a win; it was a statement. The Pirates didn't just sweep the Cardinals; they shut them out for the entire series. The 6-0 homestand was a masterclass in dominance, with the team outscoring their opponents by a staggering 43-4 margin. After a four-run explosion in the eighth inning, capped by a clutch two-run single from Isiah Kiner-Falefa, the celebration was on at a buzzing PNC Park.
The man of the hour was undoubtedly Mitch Keller, who looked every bit the ace the Pirates need him to be. Tossing seven masterful, scoreless innings, Keller baffled the Cardinals, allowing just five hits while striking out seven. After enduring a frustrating 15-start winless streak earlier this season, Keller (3-10) has now secured back-to-back victories, lowering his season ERA to a respectable 3.64. His resurgence is a massive boost for a rotation that is suddenly looking untouchable.
While the pitching has been historic, the offense has been providing more than enough firepower. Veteran Tommy Pham stayed red-hot, going 2-for-4 with two more RBI. Over his last eight games, Pham has been a force of nature, hitting a ridiculous .448 with two homers and 13 RBI. Isiah Kiner-Falefa also continued his steady production, delivering the knockout blow with his two-run single and hitting .296 over his last eight contests. The lineup is clicking from top to bottom.
The good news isn't just confined to the major league club. Down in Triple-A, the future continues to shine. Top prospects Ronny Simon and Nick Yorke both launched home runs for the Indianapolis Indians on Wednesday, providing a glimpse of the next wave of talent that will soon be making its way to Pittsburgh. The success at all levels points to a healthy and thriving organization.
The Pirates have conquered their homestand, but the true test of this newfound momentum begins now. As they pack their bags for a crucial road trip, the question on every fan's mind is whether this incredible run is a flash in the pan or the turning point of the 2025 season. Can they keep the streak alive away from the friendly confines of PNC Park? Stay tuned.
