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Pirates' Andrew McCutchen Smacks Three-Run Homer
Pittsburgh's Slugger Powers Comeback Win
Andrew McCutchen's heroics led the Pirates to a 5-3 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers. The veteran outfielder smacked a three-run homer in the bottom of the eighth inning, breaking a 2-2 tie and giving Pittsburgh the lead for good.
McCutchen's homer was his 10th of the season and his second in as many games. It was also his third hit of the night, as he finished 3-for-4 with three RBIs and a run scored.
The Pirates trailed 2-0 early in the game, but they rallied to tie it in the fifth inning on an RBI single by Kevin Newman and a sacrifice fly by Bryan Reynolds.
The Brewers regained the lead in the top of the eighth on a solo homer by Keston Hiura, but McCutchen's heroics in the bottom of the inning gave Pittsburgh the win.
The Pirates' bullpen was solid in relief of starter JT Brubaker, who allowed two runs on six hits in five innings. Kyle Crick (2-1) picked up the win, while Richard Rodriguez earned his 11th save of the season.
With the win, the Pirates improved to 30-38 on the season. They will face the Brewers again on Wednesday afternoon in the finale of their three-game series.
Andrew McCutchen's Stats
- Batting average: .265
- Home runs: 10
- RBIs: 39
- Runs scored: 42
Pirates' Playoff Chances
The Pirates are currently in fourth place in the NL Central, 10.5 games behind the first-place Milwaukee Brewers. They are also 7.5 games behind the second-place Chicago Cubs and 6.5 games behind the third-place St. Louis Cardinals.
The Pirates' playoff chances are slim, but they are not out of contention yet. They have a lot of talent on their roster, and they are capable of making a run in the second half of the season.
Conclusion
Andrew McCutchen's heroics on Tuesday night helped the Pirates to a much-needed win. The veteran outfielder is having a great season, and he is a key part of Pittsburgh's playoff hopes.