The Cleveland Guardians and Pittsburgh Pirates are set to face off in Game 2 of their three-game series at PNC Park in Pittsburgh on April 19, 2025, at 4:05 p.m. ET. The Guardians took the series opener with a 10-7 victory, powered by a strong offensive performance from Bo Naylor, who went 3-for-5 with a home run, a double, and three RBIs.
Team Overview & Season Performance
Cleveland Guardians (10-9, No. 3 in AL Central)
- The Guardians snapped a two-game losing streak with their win on April 18.
- Bo Naylor led the charge offensively, delivering a two-run double and a solo home run.
- Luis Ortiz pitched five solid innings, striking out eight batters while allowing two runs on four hits.
- Cleveland’s offense exploded for five runs in the seventh inning, breaking the game open.
Pittsburgh Pirates (8-12, No. 4 in NL Central)
- The Pirates have struggled recently, losing three of their last four games.
- Bryan Reynolds went 3-for-5 with two RBIs, including a solo home run in the seventh inning.
- Oneil Cruz hit a leadoff home run for the second consecutive game, showcasing his power.
- Pittsburgh’s bullpen allowed five runs in the seventh, which proved costly.
Key Matchups & X-Factors
Paul Skenes vs. Guardians’ Offense
- Skenes (2-1, 2.96 ERA) will start for the Pirates on his bobblehead day, adding extra excitement to the matchup.
- He has been dominant, striking out 26 batters in 24⅓ innings this season.
- If Skenes can control Cleveland’s lineup early, Pittsburgh will have a strong chance to bounce back.
Ben Lively vs. Pirates’ Power Hitters
- Lively (1-2, 6.06 ERA) will take the mound for Cleveland, looking to build off his last outing.
- Pittsburgh’s lineup has shown flashes of power, hitting three home runs in their last game.
- If Lively struggles, the Pirates could capitalize with another offensive surge.
Bullpen Battle
- Cleveland’s bullpen held strong in the ninth inning, with Emmanuel Clase securing his third save of the season.
- Pittsburgh’s relievers need to step up after allowing five runs in the seventh inning.
- If the Guardians’ bullpen remains solid, they could secure another win.
Game Odds
Cleveland Guardians 8
Pittsburgh Pirates – 175
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 18, 2025
