MLB Game Preview: Pittsburgh Pirates (20-36) vs. Arizona Diamondbacks (27-28)

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Arizona Diamondbacks logo

Game Overview

The Pirates secured a 9-6 comeback victory in Game 2, powered by Bryan Reynolds’ four-hit performance, including a three-run home run. Arizona initially jumped out to a 6-0 lead, but Pittsburgh rallied with seven runs in the eighth inning to steal the win.

The Diamondbacks enter the matchup with a 27-28 record, while the Pirates sit at 20-36, looking to build momentum after their dramatic victory.

Starting Pitchers

TeamPitcherRecordERAWHIPStrikeouts
PiratesPaul Skenes (RHP)3-22.351.1070
DiamondbacksZac Gallen (RHP)3-65.251.4058

Skenes has been lights-out, boasting a 2.35 ERA while striking out 70 batters in 68.2 innings. He has allowed just one earned run in each of his last three starts and has been dominant on the road (1.40 ERA in six starts).

Gallen, meanwhile, has struggled, posting a 6.03 ERA at home and allowing 14 earned runs in his last three starts.

Team Comparisons

CategoryPiratesDiamondbacks
Record20-3627-28
Runs Per Game3.94.6
Batting Average.238.255
Home Runs4258
ERA4.043.89
Bullpen ERA4.793.72

Arizona has been more consistent offensively, while Pittsburgh has struggled to generate runs, ranking near the bottom in batting average (.238).

Key Players to Watch

Pittsburgh Pirates

  • Bryan Reynolds (OF) – 9 HR, 26 RBI, coming off a four-hit performance.
  • Oneil Cruz (SS) – 11 HR, 30 RBI, leading the Pirates in home runs.
  • Andrew McCutchen (OF) – .261 AVG, veteran presence in the lineup.

Arizona Diamondbacks

  • Corbin Carroll (OF) – 16 HR, 35 RBI, hitting .259.
  • Gabriel Moreno (C) – 14-for-36 in his last 10 games, providing offensive consistency.
  • Josh Naylor (1B) – 6 HR, 19 RBI, riding a six-game hitting streak.

Matchup Breakdown

  • Diamondbacks’ Offense vs. Pirates’ Pitching – Arizona has been strong offensively, while Pittsburgh’s pitching staff ranks 19th in ERA (4.04).
  • Skenes’ Dominance vs. Gallen’s Struggles – Skenes has been elite, while Gallen has been inconsistent.
  • Bullpen Battle – Arizona’s bullpen has been solid (3.72 ERA), while Pittsburgh has struggled late in games.

Game Odds

Pittsburgh Pirates            7.5

Arizona Diamondbacks – 135

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, May 27, 2025

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MLB Editor
Profile: A dedicated Major League Baseball analyst with a comprehensive understanding of the sport’s strategic, statistical, and developmental layers. This columnist delivers in‑depth coverage that blends advanced metrics, scouting insight, and historical context to illuminate the trends shaping today’s game. Background: With extensive experience following MLB at both the team and league levels, the columnist has contributed to national sports outlets, digital platforms, and radio segments focused on roster construction, player evaluation, and organizational philosophy. A background in sports journalism and analytics supports a disciplined approach to breaking down performance, interpreting data, and tracking long‑term competitive cycles. Signature Coverage Areas: Game previews and pitching‑matchup analysis Advanced statistical breakdowns and sabermetric insights Prospect evaluation, farm‑system trends, and player development Trade‑deadline movement, free‑agency analysis, and front‑office strategy Historical context and postseason features Style & Approach: The writing emphasizes clarity, accuracy, and accessibility — translating complex data and tactical nuance into insights that resonate with both traditional fans and analytically minded readers. Each column reflects a commitment to balanced reporting, thoughtful evaluation, and a deep appreciation for the evolving landscape of Major League Baseball.