Pirates vs Nationals: Rookie Pitchers Clash as Pittsburgh Aims to End Losing Streak

The Pittsburgh Pirates face the Washington Nationals on Saturday. The game is the second in their weekend series. Both teams are starting rookie pitchers.

Pittsburgh is trying to end a difficult seven-game losing streak. The matchup features two young arms with limited major league experience.

Rookie Arms Take the Mound in High-Stakes Duel

Bubba Chandler will start for the Pirates. The 22-year-old right-hander is making his fifth appearance. This will be his second major league start.

His first start was rough. Chandler allowed nine runs against Milwaukee last Sunday. Despite this, Pirates management views him as a starting pitcher.

Andrew Alvarez gets the ball for the Nationals. The 26-year-old lefty has been impressive in two starts. He has allowed just two runs in nearly ten innings of work.

Alvarez expressed gratitude for his opportunity. He stated his ultimate goal is simply to help the team win games.

Nationals Rally Behind Stellar Defense to Secure Series Opener

Washington won a close game on Friday night. The final score was 6-5. The victory came after a strong seventh-inning rally.

Dylan Crews hit a go-ahead two-run homer. Rookie James Wood made a spectacular game-saving throw from left field. His play nailed a runner at home plate to preserve the lead.

Teammate Brady House praised Wood’s incredible defensive abilities. Josh Bell also contributed a key two-run single to continue his hot September streak.

For Pittsburgh, Spencer Horwitz and Jared Triolo provided offensive highlights. Horwitz homered and Triolo scored twice. Their efforts were not enough to secure a win.

The Pirates vs Nationals matchup continues to highlight baseball’s rising stars. This weekend series is crucial for both teams. Saturday’s game promises another exciting chapter in this rivalry.

Info at your fingertips

Who is pitching for the Pirates against the Nationals?

Rookie right-hander Bubba Chandler is starting for Pittsburgh. This will be his second major league start. He is considered a top pitching prospect for the Pirates.

How did the Washington Nationals win on Friday?

They rallied with a Dylan Crews two-run homer in the seventh inning. A game-saving throw from James Wood in left field sealed the 6-5 victory. The play prevented the tying run from scoring.

What is the Pirates’ current losing streak?

Pittsburgh has lost seven consecutive games. They are looking to snap this skid during the series in Washington. The team has struggled to find consistent wins recently.

Which Nationals player is on a hot streak?

First baseman Josh Bell is having a torrid September. Over his last six games, he is 9-for-20 with four home runs. He has also driven in 15 runs during that stretch.

Trusted Sources

Field Level Media, Reuters, Associated Press