PITTSBURGH — In a thrilling encounter at PNC Park, the Pittsburgh Pirates staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the Philadelphia Phillies 8-7, highlighted by Nick Gonzales’ game-winning RBI single in the ninth inning. This victory marks the Pirates’ fifth consecutive win, pushing their record to 49-48, a milestone they haven’t reached since April 24.

The game was a rollercoaster, with the Pirates initially trailing by three runs. However, they showcased resilience and determination, particularly in the crucial final inning. Connor Joe ignited the rally with a lead-off single, followed by a walk to Andrew McCutchen. In a strategic move, Michael A. Taylor, who was running for Joe, and McCutchen executed a double steal, setting the stage for the tying run. Oneil Cruz then brought in the equalizer with a fielder’s choice, paving the way for Gonzales to deliver the decisive blow.

Gonzales, who sent a first-pitch cutter through the left side of the infield, expressed his excitement about the victory, stating, “I don’t think so. Just the back and forth, especially against them, it’s pretty cool to do. It kind of shows that we can compete against the best.” His performance was pivotal in securing the win against a Phillies team that has struggled recently, losing three of their last four games.

The game drew a sellout crowd of 39,530 fans, the largest regular-season attendance at PNC Park since April 13, 2015. The atmosphere was electric as both teams battled for supremacy, with the Pirates ultimately emerging victorious.

On the mound, Carmen Mlodzinski played a crucial role for the Pirates, allowing two singles in the ninth inning but managing to retire the next three batters to secure the win. The pitching performance was a key factor in the Pirates’ ability to stay in the game and mount their comeback.

Weston Wilson of the Phillies had a standout performance, achieving a career-best three hits during the game. He put the Phillies ahead 4-3 in the third inning with a home run to left field, his first of the season and second in the majors. Wilson’s contributions were significant, as he also capped off a three-run first inning with a single that grounded off the chest of third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes, following a two-run double from Nick Castellanos.

Philadelphia Manager Rob Thomson praised Wilson’s abilities, stating, “(Wilson is) a baseball player. He can run. He can hit. … He’s a baseball player, so we’re giving him a chance here. Hopefully, he grabs it.” Wilson’s performance highlighted the depth of the Phillies’ lineup, even in a losing effort.

For the Pirates, Cruz was instrumental early in the game, driving in the first of Pittsburgh’s three runs off Aaron Nola with a powerful double that had an exit velocity of 120.5 mph. He continued to contribute by leading off the third inning with another double and scoring on a sacrifice fly to tie the game at 4-all.

Pirates Manager Derek Shelton commented on Cruz’s performance, noting, “He was outstanding. I think if anybody needed the four days, it was him, because I think you guys saw him in Chicago. He was beat up and he wasn’t moving at full speed. To be able to get him back to healthy I think is really important.” Cruz’s ability to bounce back was crucial for the team’s success.

On the other side, Aaron Nola faced challenges throughout the game, allowing four runs and six hits over five innings, accompanied by four strikeouts. Thomson acknowledged Nola’s struggles, stating, “Early in the game, he looked a little bit rusty. Seven days off between starts. A lot of stressful pitches early.” Nola’s performance was a factor in the Pirates’ ability to capitalize and mount their comeback.

Trea Turner also made significant contributions for the Phillies, putting them ahead for the third time in the game with a two-run hit. However, despite their efforts, the Phillies were unable to hold off the Pirates’ late-inning surge.

This exciting matchup showcased the competitive spirit of both teams, with the Pirates proving they can contend with top-tier opponents. As the season progresses, fans will be eager to see if Pittsburgh can maintain their winning streak and continue to build momentum.