The Pittsburgh Pirates erased a four‑run deficit to defeat the Washington Nationals 11‑5 on Sunday, capitalizing on a five‑run eighth that turned the tide.
Konnor Griffin’s two‑run single with the bases loaded in the eighth put Pittsburgh ahead 6‑4, a moment that shifted momentum decisively.
Brandon Lowe followed with a three‑run homer to right, extending the lead and sealing an 11‑5 victory.
Griffin’s defensive showcase was a centerpiece of the night, as he recorded diving stops and backhanded catches that prevented extra bases.
Bryan Reynolds added a solo homer in the fourth, his 13th of the season, while Tyler Callihan opened the scoring with a two‑run single in the second.
The Nationals rallied early, tying the game with runs in the fourth and fifth innings, and Luis García Jr. and Dylan Crews each launched solo homers to keep the pressure on.
Cade Cavalli struggled on the mound, surrendering three earned runs and six hits in just 2 ⅓ innings, while Pirates starter Bubba Chandler allowed four runs over four‑plus frames.
In the ninth, Henry Davis delivered a two‑run single to push the lead further, capping a chaotic but rewarding evening for Pittsburgh.
Looking Ahead
The Pirates will next host the Atlanta Braves on Tuesday night, with ace prospect Paul Skenes slated to take the mound.
Meanwhile, the Nationals are set to welcome the Houston Astros on Monday, as veteran right‑hander Miles Mikolas gets the call for Washington.