The Pittsburgh Pirates and Los Angeles Dodgers are set to face off in the second game of their three-game series on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California. First pitch is scheduled for 6:10 PM PT, and the game will be broadcast on regional sports networks and MLB.tv. The Pirates took the series opener with a 3-0 victory, and the Dodgers will look to bounce back and even the series.
Team Overview:
Pittsburgh Pirates (11-16, 5th in NL Central):
The Pirates have struggled this season but showed resilience in Game 1, shutting out the Dodgers and securing their first win in Los Angeles this year. Pittsburgh’s pitching staff has been solid, ranking 11th in MLB with a 3.87 ERA. Paul Skenes delivered a strong performance in the opener, striking out six batters over six innings. Offensively, Oneil Cruz has been the standout performer, hitting five home runs in his last 10 games. The Pirates will look to build on their momentum and secure another road win.
Los Angeles Dodgers (16-10, 1st in NL West):
The Dodgers have been one of the best teams in the league this season, leading MLB with 41 home runs. However, their offense was stifled in Game 1, managing just six hits and no runs. Roki Sasaki will take the mound for Los Angeles in Game 2, looking to rebound from a tough start to the season. The Dodgers’ lineup, featuring stars like Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts, will aim to capitalize on scoring opportunities and avoid falling further behind in the series.
Probable Pitchers:
Pittsburgh Pirates:
- Mitch Keller (1-2, 3.68 ERA): Keller has been reliable for the Pirates, with 19 strikeouts in 22 innings pitched. He’ll look to keep the Dodgers’ powerful lineup in check and give Pittsburgh a chance to win.
Los Angeles Dodgers:
- Roki Sasaki (0-1, 3.20 ERA): Sasaki has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency. The right-hander will need to limit walks and avoid big innings to keep the Pirates’ offense at bay.
Key Players to Watch:
Pittsburgh Pirates:
- Oneil Cruz: Cruz has been red-hot, with five home runs and a .300 batting average over his last 10 games.
- Bryan Reynolds: Reynolds’ ability to get on base and drive in runs will be crucial for Pittsburgh’s offense.
- Mitch Keller: Keller’s performance on the mound will be key to the Pirates’ chances.
Los Angeles Dodgers:
- Freddie Freeman: Freeman has been consistent at the plate, hitting .294 with two home runs and seven RBIs over his last 10 games.
- Mookie Betts: Betts’ ability to create scoring opportunities and play solid defense makes him a key player for Los Angeles.
- Roki Sasaki: Sasaki’s ability to navigate Pittsburgh’s lineup will be a deciding factor in the game.
Matchup Analysis:
Offense vs. Pitching:
The Dodgers’ powerful lineup will test Keller, who has been effective but vulnerable to big innings. Conversely, the Pirates’ offense will look to capitalize on Sasaki’s struggles and generate runs early.
Momentum:
The Pirates enter this game with confidence after their shutout victory in Game 1, while the Dodgers will aim to regroup and leverage their home-field advantage.
Defense and Bullpen:
Both teams have solid defensive units, but the Pirates’ bullpen was the difference-maker in Game 1, shutting down Los Angeles’ offense in the late innings. The Dodgers will need their relievers to step up and provide support for Sasaki.
Game Odds
Pittsburgh Pirates 8.5
Los Angeles Dodgers – 278
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 25, 2025
