Marlins vs Pirates predictions
When you look at the Miami Marlins lineup heading into this series rubber match, there are a few bats that feel like they could make some real noise at PNC Park. Xavier Edwards has been quietly reliable all year with his steady bat, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him notch another multi-hit game while flashing a bit of speed on the bases. Dane Myers has also started to heat up in recent games—a couple of well-timed hits, including maybe an extra-base knock, could easily be in his future against the Pirates’ pitching. And keep an eye on Agustin Ramirez, who’s had a knack for getting timely RBIs; it wouldn’t shock me to see him drive one deep or at least come through in a rally spot tonight. With Cal Quantrill toeing the rubber, if the offense can scratch out some consistent runs, the Marlins could be in position to keep things tight all game.
On the other side, the Pittsburgh Pirates have a few standouts of their own itching to break out. Oneil Cruz always feels like a power threat, and with his combination of speed and raw strength, you can almost pencil in an extra-base hit and a run scored whenever he finds the right pitch. Bryan Reynolds tends to rise to the occasion in big moments, so a couple of RBIs could be on the table if the Pirates’ lineup gets rolling. Don’t sleep on Andrew McCutchen either; his veteran presence at the plate means he’s always a candidate for clutch walks, important hits, and putting pressure on the Marlins’ defense. And with Bailey Falter taking the mound, if he can keep those early innings clean and avoid the long ball, the Pirates’ bullpen could shut things down late.
This one really feels like it could go either way, but all signs point to Pittsburgh grabbing the edge at home. The Pirates have a little more pop in the lineup, and if Falter can settle in, the Marlins might find it tough to rally late. Miami’s scrappy, and Quantrill can be tough, but the combination of Cruz’s power, Reynolds’ run production, and that extra spark the Pirates get at PNC Park might make the difference. I’m leaning Pirates in what should be a tense, competitive series finale—let’s see if the home crowd helps push them over the top.
