Peguero and Ortiz Drive Pittsburgh Pirates to Stellar 2-1 Win Over Milwaukee Brewers

In a gripping Wednesday night encounter, Liover Peguero, with his two-run double, and Luis Ortiz, through his solid seven innings on the mound, powered the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 2-1 triumph over the Milwaukee Brewers.

Ortiz’s Commanding Performance on the Mound

Ortiz (7-6) exhibited a sterling performance, surrendering just one run off four hits, with a solitary walk and five strikeouts across seven innings. The only blemish on his otherwise stellar outing was a second-inning pitch that Milwaukee’s designated hitter Jake Bauers sent flying into the right-center stands for his 12th home run of the season.

Peguero’s Decisive Contribution

Peguero, who had previously led all Pirates minor leaguers this season in hits, RBIs, and doubles, was called up on Tuesday following the unexpected release of first baseman Rowdy Tellez. The shortstop etched his mark in the fifth inning against Freddy Peralta (11-9), driving in Yasmani Grandal and Nick Yorke with a shot to left-center. Both Grandal and Yorke had earned their spots on base through full-count walks.

Pirates’ Supporting Cast

Isiah Kiner-Falefa added to Pittsburgh’s offense with two hits, a clean single in the fourth and an infield hit in the eighth. The game’s finale saw closer Aroldis Chapman record his 12th save after left fielder Bryan Reynolds outed Willy Adames in the ninth, cutting short his attempted move from a single to a double.

Ortiz’s Strong Pitching Case

Ortiz, who initially started the season as a long reliever, has presented a persuasive argument for his continued place in the 2025 rotation, which will feature rookie sensation Paul Skenes. The right-hander’s development of a deeper repertoire this season, including the addition of a cutter, has increased his effectiveness.

Brewers’ Standout Performances

Rhys Hoskins, William Contreras, and Sal Frelick each singled for the NL Central champion Brewers, who are gearing up for their sixth playoff appearance in the last seven years. One of the key reasons for Milwaukee’s return to postseason play this year has been Peralta. Despite a brief struggle in the fifth inning, the 28-year-old right-hander has been a consistent presence at the top of the Brewers’ rotation.

Upcoming Games

The series concludes on Thursday with Pittsburgh’s home finale. Aaron Civale (7-9, 4.53 ERA) will take the mound for Milwaukee, while Mitch Keller (11-11, 4.21) is set to make his final start of the season for the Pirates.