Chicago
The Pittsburgh Pirates used a strong bullpen performance to defeat the Chicago White Sox 4-2, earning their fifth straight series victory and seventh in their last eight series.
Esmerlyn Valdez hit a solo home run in the fifth inning, while Konnor Griffin added a two-run single in the seventh to help Pittsburgh secure the win. Rafael Flores Jr. also drove in a run with a single during the seventh inning as the Pirates created a comfortable advantage.
Pittsburgh used eight pitchers in the bullpen game, with the group allowing eight hits while striking out 14 batters. Brandon Eisert, who began the season with Chicago, delivered an impressive performance against his former team. The left-hander pitched 2 1/3 perfect innings and struck out five batters.
The White Sox tried to fight back after falling behind. Sam Antonacci brought home a run with a single in the seventh inning after Pittsburgh pitcher Camilo Doval failed to cover first base. Yohan Ramirez then ended the threat by forcing Miguel Vargas into a double play.
Chicago moved closer in the eighth when Munetaka Murakami hit his 31st home run of the season against Luke Weaver. The White Sox later loaded the bases but could not score, as Pirates third baseman Jared Triolo made a key defensive play to end the threat. Mason Montgomery then struck out two in a perfect ninth inning for his 11th save.
The victory lifted Pittsburgh to 73-73, putting the Pirates at .500 for the first time since August 3. They also remained in contention for the National League’s third wild-card spot with their third consecutive win.
