On Wednesday night, the St. Louis Cardinals secured a decisive 10-5 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates in the third game of their four-game series. The Cardinals' offense broke out in the seventh inning, turning a close game into a resounding victory.
Jordan Walker and Masyn Winn Hit Decisive Home Runs
Jordan Walker played a crucial role in the game, with a bases-loaded double in the seventh inning that contributed significantly to the Cardinals' offensive outburst in that inning.
Walker described the pitch he hit as a high straight, expressing his satisfaction with the result. Brendan Donovan also made a notable contribution, connecting on a two-run home run earlier in the game.
Masyn Winn added to the Cardinals' momentum by starting the seventh inning with a solo home run, tying the game 5-5, which was a pivotal moment in changing the momentum of the game.
Nolan Arenado had a productive night, pushing across a run, scoring twice, collecting three hits and walking twice. His offensive performance was complemented by Billy Cook's significant hit for the Pirates.
Cook, acquired from the Orioles at the trade deadline, hit his first home run in the majors. Major League Baseballa three-run home run. Cook expressed gratitude and relief for his first career home run, noting it as an important milestone.
Michael McGreevy Excels in First Relief Appearance
On the mound, Michael McGreevy turned in a solid performance for the Cardinals. In his first relief appearance since college at UC Santa Barbara, McGreevy pitched the final three innings allowing no runs, striking out four and allowing just two hits. His performance was a bright spot for the Cardinals pitching staff.
In contrast, David Bednar took the loss for the Pirates, allowing three runs (two clean ones) in just one-third inning in relief. Starter Jake Woodford, who was facing his former team for the first time, pitched 4 2/3 innings, allowing four runs on eight hits while striking out five. Woodford awarded no bases on balls in his outing.
Sonny Gray opened for the Cardinals and pitched 5 2/3 innings, giving up four runs on nine hits but striking out eight. Gray surpassed the 200-strikeout mark for the second time in his career, having previously reached 205 strikeouts in 2019 with the Reds. Gray described reaching the 200-strikeout milestone as a remarkable accomplishment.
The game also had some tense moments. Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol was ejected in the bottom of the fourth inning for arguing balls and strikes, marking his sixth National League ejection of the season and his 15th career ejection. Hitting coach Turner Ward was also ejected in the same inning.
That's a Winner!#ForTheLou pic.twitter.com/RjnDJaP929
- St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) September 19, 2024
Ejections and Transactions Mark the Night for Both Teams
In terms of transactions, the Pirates promoted Jake Woodford from Triple-A Indianapolis to start the game, while the Cardinals called up Michael McGreevy from Triple-A Memphis.
The Pirates also placed right-handed pitcher Kyle Nicolas on the 15-day injured list with a left oblique strain, retroactive to Tuesday, and Oneil Cruz remains day-to-day with a left ankle problem.
The Cardinals placed right-handed pitcher Lance Lynn on the 15-day injured list due to right knee inflammation, ending his season. The team must decide on Lynn's option for next season.
Looking ahead, the Pirates will have right-handed pitcher Luis Ortiz (6-6, 3.45 ERA) making his 14th start and 36th appearance of the season.
The Cardinals will respond with right-handed pitcher Erick Fedde (8-9, 3.45 ERA), who has previously won both starts against the Pirates in 2022 while with the Washington Nationals.
