Pirates vs Phillies predictions
If you’re following the Pittsburgh Pirates this season, you know it hasn’t been the smoothest ride, but there are still a few bright spots heading into this showdown with the Philadelphia Phillies. Joey Bart, arguably one of Pittsburgh’s more consistent bats lately, is primed for a game that could see him notch at least one hit and maybe even drive in a run or two if he gets the right opportunities. Keep an eye on Oneil Cruz, who has shown a knack for clutch power; he looks likely to add to his home run total and could easily pick up multiple hits and a walk in this matchup. And with Paul Skenes on the mound, the Pirates have an arm who can rack up strikeouts—he feels good for at least six or seven punchouts, and if he can minimize mistakes, he might keep Philly’s lineup contained in the early innings.
Switching over to the Phillies, the offense looks geared up to keep the momentum going, especially with big names like Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber ready to step up. Harper could easily be in line for a multi-hit game, possibly adding a double or even going deep if he gets his pitch. Schwarber, who’s already been mashing this season, is always a danger to go yard, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him work a walk or two on top of making solid contact. Trea Turner is another name to watch—he’s been one of the steadiest forces in the Phillies’ lineup and looks set for a couple of hits and a run scored. On the mound, Philly’s Mick Abel might not go deep into the game, but if he keeps his command in check, he should be able to keep the runs to a minimum and give the Phillies a solid five innings.
When you stack it all up, it feels like the Phillies have both the momentum and the edge on paper. The offense is deeper, the pitching is capable, and when you factor in how they’ve performed at home, everything points toward Philadelphia having the upper hand in this series finale. The Pirates won’t roll over—there are enough bats in the lineup to keep things interesting—but Citizens Bank Park is a tough setting for a team still searching for its groove. If you’re making a call, banking on the Phillies to complete the sweep feels like the smart move in this one.
