PITTSBURGH, PA — The Pittsburgh Pirates suffered a blow in Saturday’s 3-2 loss to the Atlanta Braves in 11 innings, as star shortstop Oneil Cruz exited with back tightness. His absence in Sunday’s series finale raises questions about whether the Pirates can stay competitive without their offensive cornerstone.
Cruz, 26, was pulled in the ninth inning after showing discomfort following a stolen base attempt. Manager Derek Shelton reshuffled the lineup, moving Matt Gorski to center, Jared Triolo to first, and Liover Peguero to shortstop. Despite the defensive adjustments, Pittsburgh’s offense struggled, managing just four hits.
Leading the team with eight home runs and 16 stolen bases, Cruz’s blend of power, speed, and defense is irreplaceable. His injury comes as the Pirates, near .500, fight to stay in the NL Central race against a strong Braves squad. “Cruz is our difference-maker,” Shelton said. “We’re awaiting imaging results, but we’ll lean on our depth.”
Cruz’s injury history, including a 2023 ankle fracture that sidelined him for most of the season, fuels concern. Fans on X expressed frustration, with one posting, “Cruz down feels like the season slipping away.” Others remain hopeful, citing the team’s resilience in 2023 without him.
The Pirates, relying on Cruz, Bryan Reynolds, and Ke’Bryan Hayes, face a test. Andrew McCutchen, a mentor to Cruz, believes in the team’s fight. “He’s got all the tools, but we’ve got guys who can step up,” McCutchen said.
As Pittsburgh awaits Cruz’s diagnosis, Sunday’s game looms large. A win could salvage the series, but a loss without their slugger might deepen doubts about the Pirates’ postseason hopes. Can they weather this storm?
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