Pirates Reeling After Rain-Soaked Defeat—All Eyes on Showdown With Phillies This Weekend
After a midnight finish in a rain-delayed game, the Pirates must regroup as they host their rivals, the Phillies, this weekend. Key matchups await.
- Rain Delay Duration: Nearly 3.5 hours, first pitch at 10:02 PM ET
- Pirates Strikeouts: 16—the most in a game this season
- Next Series: Three-game set vs. the Philadelphia Phillies begins Friday
The Pittsburgh Pirates may have needed extra coffee this morning after a wild night at PNC Park. Wednesday’s rubber match against the Houston Astros didn’t start until 10:02 PM ET—about three and a half hours past the scheduled time—thanks to relentless rain showers. By the time the final out was made at 12:24 AM, the Pirates had dropped the game 8-2 in front of a handful of die-hard fans.
Players trudged off the field, weariness visible after a game loaded with tension, strikeouts, and meteorological mayhem. But there’s no time to dwell: the Philadelphia Phillies arrive tonight, setting the stage for a high-stakes weekend series.
Major League Baseball decisions factored in both teams’ relatively clear schedules—neither would play again until Friday, allowing this hard-fought matchup to go forward far into the night. Pittsburgh’s resilience was on display, even in defeat, punctuated by a season-high 16 strikeouts at the plate.
What Happened During the Marathon Rain Delay?
As thunderstorms battered Pittsburgh, uncertainty shrouded PNC Park. The wait stretched nearly three-and-a-half hours as fans and players alike anxiously monitored forecasts and radar.
Manager Don Kelly and his staff navigated tense conversations with league officials. With the Astros making their final visit to Pittsburgh this season, both teams were eager to get the contest in. The Pirates’ determination to play—even after midnight—underscored the sense of urgency despite their losing skid.
How Is the Team Bouncing Back From the Loss?
While weary, the Pirates aren’t wallowing. They’re sharpening their focus ahead of a pivotal three-game home series against their cross-state enemies, the Phillies. Utility and morale have been top priorities in recovery sessions, and fans expect a new burst of energy Friday night.
The team looks to lefty Bailey Falter (4-3, 3.14 ERA), who’s pitching his best baseball yet. Falter—a former Phillie himself—will face his old squad in a matchup loaded with storyline potential. Philadelphia counters with Joe Ross (2-1, 4.34 ERA), typically a bullpen arm but getting the start due to injuries.
Who Are the Key Players to Watch?
- Bailey Falter: The left-hander is in top form and ready to prove himself against the team that drafted him.
- Paul Skenes: Pittsburgh’s ace will take center stage Sunday—last time he faced Philly, he pitched an eight-inning gem, striking out nine.
- Pirates Offense: After a strikeout-heavy game, look for hitters to adjust and spark the lineup.
On the Phillies’ side, star power remains high, but their recent cold streak—losing six of their last seven contests—gives Pittsburgh hope. Even seasoned Phillies fans are watching closely after their club’s embarrassing 9-1 defeat to the Blue Jays on Thursday.
How Can Fans Catch the Action?
Mark your calendars—here’s the lineup for the weekend at the beautiful PNC Park:
- Game 1: Friday, 6:40 PM ET
- Game 2: Saturday, 4:05 PM ET
- Game 3: Sunday, 1:35 PM ET
For the absolute latest on the Pirates, breaking news, and in-depth analysis, check out Sports Illustrated and the official Pittsburgh Pirates site.
What’s Next For the Pirates? How Can They Turn the Tide?
The Pirates must shake off Wednesday’s emotional (and literal) storm. Showcasing grit and youthful pitching, they’re well-positioned if Falter and Skenes deliver. Attack-minded at-bats and timely defense could make this pivotal homestand one of the most memorable of 2025.
Don’t miss a pitch—follow the Pirates’ journey live and cheer on the black and gold as they chase a comeback. Here’s your weekend checklist:
- Rest up for late-game thrills—extra innings always possible!
- Bookmark MLB.com for scores and updates
- Watch Falter and Skenes—key arms for Pittsburgh’s future
- Track Phillies’ hot bats and Pirates’ bounce-back hitters
- Engage with fellow fans on Twitter and Facebook
Pittsburgh battles on. Are you ready for the next chapter?
