Pirates snap an 8-game skid, beating the Twins 2-1 on July 14, 2025. Mitch Keller's quality start and a 9th-inning rally secure the win before the draft.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Exhale, Pirates fans. After eight straight losses, the Bucs finally found the win column, grinding out a 2-1 victory against the Twins to head into the All-Star break on a high note. While the players get a much-needed rest, the front office is hard at work today, with the MLB Draft underway and a chance to add another cornerstone to the franchise's future.
Mitch Keller was his usual steady self, delivering his 14th quality start of the season, a mark that ties him for second-most in all of Major League Baseball.
It wasn't a blowout, but it was exactly the kind of tough, fundamental win the Pirates needed. After Tommy Pham put the Bucs on the board with a second-inning solo homer, the game remained deadlocked until the ninth. A pinch-hit single from Oneil Cruz, another knock from Ke’Bryan Hayes, and a career-high-tying fourth hit from Isiah Kiner-Falefa loaded the bases. Spencer Horwitz delivered the decisive blow with a go-ahead RBI groundout. Mitch Keller was brilliant through six, and the bullpen duo of Dennis Santana (who got the win) and David Bednar (13th save) slammed the door shut. Snapping an eight-game skid is huge for morale heading into the break.
With the on-field action paused, all eyes turn to Atlanta for the continuation of the 2025 MLB Draft. For the sixth straight season, the Pirates are picking in the top 10, holding the sixth overall selection. General manager Ben Cherington has been clear about the strategy: draft the best player available and continue to infuse the system with high-end talent. Following in the footsteps of recent top picks like Paul Skenes, Konnor Griffin, and Termarr Johnson, today's selections in rounds 4-20 are crucial for building the sustainable winner the organization craves. It’s a pivotal day for the long-term health of the franchise.
So as the All-Star break begins, there's a dual sense of relief and anticipation. The win provides a moment of celebration and a clean slate for the second half, which kicks off against the Chicago White Sox. At the same time, the draft represents the promise of tomorrow. A win today and a win for the future—it's a good Monday to be a Pirates fan.
