The Pittsburgh Pirates, fresh off a thrilling come-from-behind victory, are now focused on securing a consecutive win against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the rubber match of their three-game series. This pivotal game sees the Pirates riding a wave of momentum, largely propelled by an unexpected standout performance from one of their players. The Dodgers, meanwhile, are eager to regain their footing after Wednesday's stunning defeat, where a significant lead slipped away.
Wednesday's contest was a truly memorable affair for Tyler Callihan of the Pirates. Despite a career batting average of just 3-for-16 and a history marred by injuries since 2019, Callihan delivered an extraordinary performance. He smashed his first major league home run in the fourth inning against the formidable Shohei Ohtani, who saw his ERA climb from an impressive 0.74 to 1.06 after giving up four runs. Callihan wasn't done there; he later launched a crucial three-run homer in the eighth inning, igniting a five-run rally that propelled Pittsburgh to a dramatic 9-8 victory. This game marked Callihan's first start in the outfield since a severe arm and wrist injury in May 2025, sustained while playing for the Cincinnati Reds.
As the series concludes, the Pirates will send right-hander Mitch Keller to the mound, hoping he can overcome a recent rough patch. Keller has struggled in his last two starts, allowing 13 runs and 17 hits in just 8 2/3 innings, and has historically faced difficulties against the Dodgers, holding a 2-3 record with a 6.59 ERA in six career outings. The Dodgers will counter with left-hander Justin Wrobleski, who boasts a strong 7-2 record with a 2.62 ERA. Wrobleski has been a consistent performer, recently pitching six shutout innings against the Arizona Diamondbacks, marking his fourth such performance this season. His strong play has been vital for a Dodgers rotation dealing with injuries to key pitchers like Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow.
Both teams are also grappling with recent roster changes. The Pirates have placed rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin on the injured list with a right forearm strain and outfielder Oneil Cruz with fractures in his left hand. Catcher Henry Davis was also placed on the paternity list, with Rafael Flores Jr. called up from Triple-A. The Dodgers will be without catcher Will Smith, who is out with a stiff neck, leading to Dalton Rushing likely making his fifth consecutive start, and Chuckie Robinson being recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City.
As the Pittsburgh team seeks to replicate its success, the Los Angeles squad aims to recover from its prior stumble. The upcoming game promises to be a compelling battle, with both sides navigating injury challenges and relying on their pitchers to deliver under pressure, making for an exciting conclusion to the series.