Opinion
3 min read

Pirates Poised to Plunder Cardinals in Next PNC Park Showdown

The Pittsburgh Pirates are gearing up for an electrifying face-off against the St. Louis Cardinals at PNC Park, and if their recent performances are anything to go by, fans are in for a treat. The Pirates have shown a remarkable blend of resilience and skill in their past games, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthralling encounter.


Jul 4, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Mitch Keller (23) jogs in the outfield before a game against the St. Louis Cardinals at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In their latest game against the Chicago White Sox, the Pirates demonstrated their offensive prowess by securing a 9-4 victory. This win was highlighted by an explosive seventh inning where they racked up four runs on four hits, showcasing their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. With a batting average of .333 and an OPS (On-base Plus Slugging) of 1.072 from that game alone, it's clear that the Pirates' hitters are finding their rhythm at just the right time.


Moreover, the bullpen's performance has been nothing short of stellar. In two recent outings against the White Sox, Pittsburgh's relievers posted ERA (Earned Run Average) figures of 3.0 and 2.7 respectively while maintaining low WHIP (Walks plus Hits per Innings Pitched) values below 1.4. Such statistics not only highlight the bullpen's efficiency in limiting opponents' scoring chances but also its crucial role in closing out games.


Jul 3, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Jared Jones (37) delivers a pitch against the St. Louis Cardinals during the second inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

While much attention is rightly given to Pittsburgh's offense and bullpen, it’s imperative not to overlook their defense which has been solid with fielding percentages above .970 across these games. This defensive reliability will be vital in curbing the Cardinals' attempts at mounting pressure through base hits and runs.


On the other side, while St Louis Cardinals come into this matchup with commendable credentials themselves; however based on recent performances including those against PIT itself - they might find it challenging facing a team that seems to be peaking at just about every facet of play when needed most.


Jul 2, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  St. Louis Cardinals second baseman Nolan Gorman (16) hits a grand slam home run against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the fourth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

As we look ahead to July 24th’s showdown scheduled for 12:35 PM EDT at PNC Park located in Pittsburgh PA USA fans can catch all action live MLB Network where both teams will vie supremacy yet again but this time with Pirates showing signs being formidable force reckon within league especially considering how they've managed turn things around mid-season onwards making them one watch closely as season progresses further into second half.

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