Konnor Griffin’s 2-run double highlights a 5-run second inning as Pirates hold off Brewers 7-4

In a thrilling matchup between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Milwaukee Brewers on Thursday, the Pirates emerged victorious with a 7-4 score. Konnor Griffin's two-run double to left field set the tone for a dominant second inning. Henry Davis followed with a two-run homer in the same inning, solidifying the Pirates' lead.

The Brewers, NL Central champions, found themselves outmatched by the Pirates' strong performance. Milwaukee, boasting a 95-58 record, currently holds a two-game lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers, who sit at the top of the NL seed standings. However, Pittsburgh (76-77) is on the verge of missing the playoffs for the 11th consecutive season, with their last postseason appearances dating back to 2013-2015.

Konnor Griffin's key moment came with an opposite-field liner to left, putting the Pirates ahead 2-1. Oneil Cruz added another run with a two-run single, and Brandon Lowe was hit by a pitch from Kyle Harrison with the bases loaded. Bo Naylor contributed with a solo homer in the eighth inning, following Sal Frelick's sacrifice fly.

Henry Davis delivered the final blow with a powerful eighth-inning homer against Andy Ashby. Mason Montgomery showcased his pitching prowess, recording four outs in a 14th save in 16 chances, extending his scoreless innings streak to 21 2/3 innings. Despite his solid outing, Milwaukee's starting pitcher Andy Ashby struggled, allowing five runs over nine innings.

Notably absent from the Brewers' lineup was center fielder Garrett Mitchell, who missed both games due to stiffness in his left neck. Mitchell took over as a pinch hitter in the eighth inning.