The Pittsburgh Pirates, now with an 18-23 record, faced off against the Chicago Cubs, who improved to 24-17 after the game. In a contest that extended to extra innings at PNC Park, the final score read 5-4 in favor of the visiting team.

May 12, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Bailey Falter (26) delivers a pitch against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The game began with both teams showing strong defensive plays, but it was the Cubs who managed to break through first. The visitors put up two runs in the opening inning, setting an early pace for the game. Despite this initial setback, the Pirates' pitching staff held firm through most of the contest, limiting further damage and keeping their chances alive.

Offensively, Pittsburgh struggled to find their rhythm against a formidable Chicago pitching lineup. It wasn't until the fourth inning that they managed to get on board with a single run. This was followed by another run in the sixth inning as they slowly chipped away at Chicago's lead. Heading into extra innings tied at 2-2 showed both teams' resilience and determination.

May 12, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

However, it was in these crucial extra frames that Chicago managed to pull ahead decisively. Scoring three runs in the top of the tenth put immense pressure on Pittsburgh's offense. Responding under pressure, Pittsburgh rallied to add two more runs but ultimately fell short by one run.

Throughout this intense matchup, key statistics highlight areas where Pittsburgh excelled and where opportunities were missed. The Pirates had a total of eight hits and capitalized on scoring opportunities with three hits when runners were in scoring position (RISP). Their pitchers combined for a total pitch count of 187 across ten innings of work which reflects their effort to keep games within reach despite facing adversity.

May 12, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Cubs second baseman Nick Madrigal (1) tags Pittsburgh Pirates right fielder Connor Joe (2) out on a caught stealing run down between first and second bases during the fourth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

On defense, Pittsburgh showcased solid fielding without committing any errors throughout ten innings—a testament to their focus and execution under pressure. However, despite these efforts and managing eleven left on base (LOB), they couldn't overcome Chicago's late surge.

Looking ahead after this heart-wrenching loss against Chicago Cubs at PNC Park under partly cloudy skies with mild temperatures around 63 degrees Fahrenheit; fans are already marking their calendars for what promises to be an exciting match-up as The Pirates head over American Family Field located Milwaukee Wisconsin USA zip code:53214 facing off against Brewers scheduled May 13th starting time approximately around:7:40 PM Eastern Time Zone broadcasted live BSWI network ensuring fans won’t miss action-packed moment from upcoming game.

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