Guardians sweep Pirates after Manzardo's clutch sacrifice fly
- Cleveland's Kyle Manzardo hit a two-run homer and added a sacrifice fly in the 10th inning.
- The Guardians secured a 5-4 victory over the Pirates, completing a three-game series sweep.
- This victory reinforces the Guardians' strong start to the season while the Pirates struggle with their performance.
In Pittsburgh, on April 20, 2025, the Cleveland Guardians triumphed over the Pittsburgh Pirates in a thrilling 5-4 game, completing a three-game sweep. The game showcased the skills of Cleveland's Kyle Manzardo, who hit a two-run homer and delivered a key sacrifice fly in the 10th inning, contributing significantly to his team's success. This victory marked the Guardians' continuation of strong performances this season. The Pirates, meanwhile, struggled, falling to an 8-15 record after three consecutive losses to their opponents. The match was marked by a tense ninth inning where the Pirates mounted a formidable comeback. Emmanuel Clase was tasked with closing the game for Cleveland but allowed three runs in the final frame, leading to a nail-biting tie at 4-4. However, the Guardians rallied back, thanks to Manzardo's timely hitting. Earlier in the game, Steven Kwan and Kyle Manzardo both blasted two-run homers, giving Cleveland a lead that they would fight to maintain throughout the contest. Cleveland's pitching staff was equally notable, with a combined effort that limited the Pirates to just eight hits throughout the game. Both starting pitchers displayed resilience, but ultimately, it was Manzardo's performance that became the highlight. Fans at the PNC Park witnessed not only a competitive game but also an exhilarating display of baseball as the Guardians displayed their depth in hitting and pitching capacity. As the game concluded, the Guardians' successful series against the Pirates underlined their prospects for the ongoing season, placing them in a favorable situation heading into their next matchups. With the victory, Cleveland increased momentum and confidence, while the Pirates faced questions about their early-season struggles. The win was a testament to the Guardians' resilience and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, setting the stage for their upcoming challenges against future opponents.