The Pittsburgh Pirates (15-31) will face the Philadelphia Phillies (27-18) in the final game of their three-game series at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. First pitch is set for 1:35 PM ET, with the game airing on NBC Sports Philadelphia.
Game Details
- Matchup: Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Philadelphia Phillies
- Date: Sunday, May 18, 2025
- Location: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA
- Time: 1:35 PM ET
- TV Broadcast: NBC Sports Philadelphia
- Streaming: NBC Sports App, MLB.TV (regional restrictions apply)
Team Overview & Key Storylines
Pittsburgh Pirates (15-31)
- The Pirates have struggled recently, going 3-7 in their last 10 games.
- Oneil Cruz leads the team with eight home runs, while Andrew McCutchen has contributed three homers and seven doubles.
- Paul Skenes (3-4, 2.63 ERA) will start on the mound, looking to bounce back after a tough stretch where the Pirates have gone 3-6 in his nine outings.
- Pittsburgh has struggled offensively, ranking last in MLB in runs scored.
Philadelphia Phillies (27-18)
- The Phillies are aiming for a series sweep, having won the first two games.
- Kyle Schwarber has been dominant, leading the team with 15 home runs and 35 RBIs.
- Bryce Harper has contributed seven homers and 26 RBIs, while Trea Turner leads the team with a .302 batting average.
- Cristopher Sánchez (4-1, 2.91 ERA) will take the mound for Philadelphia, looking to continue his strong season.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Paul Skenes (Pirates) vs. Phillies’ Offense – Skenes has pitched well, but Philadelphia’s lineup is one of the most dangerous in MLB.
- Kyle Schwarber vs. Pirates’ Pitching – Schwarber ranks second in MLB in home runs and could be a game-changer.
- Bryce Harper vs. Oneil Cruz – Both players are key offensive contributors and could be the difference-makers.
Game Odds
Pittsburgh Pirates 9
Philadelphia Phillies – 110
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, May 17, 2025
