Pirates Edge Astros with Late Homer from Taylor

In a thrilling matchup on Monday night, the Pittsburgh Pirates triumphed over the Houston Astros 5-3, thanks to a pivotal three-run homer by Michael A. Taylor in the ninth inning off reliever Josh Hader. Starting pitcher Paul Skenes delivered a strong performance, allowing just one earned run over six innings, which lowered his ERA from 1.93 to 1.90. Skenes recorded six strikeouts, bringing his season total to 103 in just 13 starts, a figure that ranks among the best for rookie pitchers in MLB history. The game began with the Astros taking a 2-0 lead in the fifth inning, capitalizing on a bases-loaded situation. A critical error by Pirates' third baseman Ke'Bryan Hayes allowed two runs to score when Jose Altuve's grounder glanced off his glove. Despite the early setback, the Pirates rallied, with Taylor's decisive homer in the ninth turning the tide in their favor. Aroldis Chapman contributed to the Pirates' success by striking out two batters in a hitless eighth inning, while David Bednar secured his 19th save of the season. On the other side, Houston's Tayler Scott made an impressive debut, pitching three hitless innings after being called up for his first start of the season. Looking ahead, the Pirates activated left-hander Bailey Falter from the injured list, who is set to make his first start since July 6. The Astros, meanwhile, bolstered their rotation by acquiring Yusei Kikuchi from Toronto, as they prepare for the continuation of the series.