Pirates Win 7-2 Against Mariners with Kiner-Falefa's 3 Hits

PITTSBURGH (AP) — The Pittsburgh Pirates triumphed over the struggling Seattle Mariners with a decisive 7-2 victory on Saturday, marking their second consecutive win in the three-game series. Isiah Kiner-Falefa led the charge with three hits, including a homer in the first inning, while Rowdy Tellez and Jared Triolo also contributed with home runs. Joey Bart added two doubles, showcasing a strong offensive performance from the Pirates, who had recently endured a 10-game losing streak. The Mariners, who began the day in second place in the AL West, faced their fifth straight loss. Despite a promising start with Victor Robles hitting a tying RBI single in the second inning, the Pirates regained control when Tellez launched a two-run homer in the fourth inning. Starting pitcher Luis Castillo struggled, allowing four runs and five hits over 5 1/3 innings, marking a departure from his previous performances where he had pitched at least six innings in his last seven starts. In a tense ninth inning, the Pirates had to fend off a Mariners rally as Domingo German loaded the bases with a walk and two hit batters. The game highlighted the Mariners' ongoing struggles, with Randy Arozarena striking out in all five of his at-bats. In roster news, the Pirates placed designated hitter Andrew McCutchen on the 10-day injured list due to left knee inflammation and recalled infielder Alika Williams from Triple-A Indianapolis. Oneil Cruz, who had left the previous game with left ankle discomfort, returned to the lineup as the designated hitter.