Pittsburgh Pirates News & Notes 05/18/2026

The Pittsburgh Pirates currently sit at 24-23 and fourth in the National League Central standings. They just faced a challenging Sunday afternoon. The Philadelphia Phillies shut them out 6-0. This completed a three-game series sweep at PNC Park.

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MLB Game Recap

The Pirates were held to five hits in the 6-0 loss, marking their second consecutive shutout defeat. Ace Paul Skenes (5 IP, 5 ER, 6 H, 1 BB, 7 K, 92 pitches) unraveled in the fifth. His 39-inning walk-less streak ended. He allowed a leadoff walk to Adolis García. Skenes then gave up two runs on a groundout and a single. After Bryce Harper hit a solo homer in the sixth, Skenes exited with two on. Bryson Stott then hit a double against reliever Isaac Mattson, and both runners scored. The bullpen saw Yohan Ramírez strike out the side in the seventh. Dennis Santana, however, allowed a solo shot in the eighth.

Standout Performer

Shortstop Konnor Griffin provided a bright spot, finishing 1-for-3 with a base hit and a highlight-reel defensive play. In the fifth inning, the rookie made a spectacular diving stop in the hole. He robbed Justin Crawford of a hit. This play showcased the range that has solidified him in the lineup. He was caught stealing for the first time in his career later that frame. Nonetheless, his defensive versatility remains a key asset for the club. They are currently navigating a stretch of limited offensive production.

Key News & Notes

Farm Report

• Triple-A (Indianapolis Indians): Dominic Fletcher (4-for-4, HR, 3B, 4 RBI) fell just a double shy of the cycle. Indy won game one 10-7. They then lost game two 5-3 in a doubleheader split with Louisville.
• Double-A (Altoona Curve): Lonnie White Jr. hit a home run and had two RBIs. This provided the power in an 8-3 loss to Harrisburg. Rehabber Jared Jones struck out seven over 4.1 innings.
• High-A (Greensboro Grasshoppers): Tony Blanco Jr. (3-for-6, HR, 2 2B, 5 RBI) led a massive offensive attack in an 18-7 rout of Jersey Shore.
• Single-A (Bradenton Marauders): Richard Ramirez (2-for-4, 1 R) recorded a multi-hit game. The team suffered a 9-2 loss to Fort Myers. The bullpen surrendered eight runs in the ninth inning, leading to the defeat.
• Rookie FCL Pirates: had no game scheduled for Sunday.

Looking Ahead

Following a much-needed off-day on Monday, the Pirates open a three-game road series against the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday. Mitch Keller (4-2, 3.59 ERA) is scheduled to start against southpaw Matthew Liberatore (2-2, 4.20 ERA).

The offense has been held scoreless for 22 consecutive innings. The Pirates must find a way to reignite the bats during this road trip. They need to avoid falling further behind in the division. What do you think?