Introduction to the Game
The Miami Marlins secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday, thanks to a home run by Griffin Conine and a walk-off run by Derek Hill in the bottom of the ninth inning.
Early Game Highlights
Andrew McCutchen started the game strong with a lead-off homer in the top of the second inning. However, Nick Fortes quickly evened the score with an RBI double to left, driving in Hill and making it 1-1 going into the third. McCutchen’s homer marked his 800th career extra-base hit, placing him third among active players behind Freddie Freeman and Paul Goldschmidt.
Turning Point of the Game
Conine hit a solo shot in the bottom of the seventh to tie the game 2-2. His father, Jeff Conine, a key figure in the Marlins’ World Series titles in 1997 and 2003, was inducted into the franchise’s hall of fame earlier that day. Isiah Kiner-Falefa had given the Pirates a 2-1 lead in the fifth inning with an infield single that drove in Endy Rodriguez.
Late Game Heroics
In the top of the ninth, Miami’s Kyle Stowers made a crucial running over-the-head catch at the warning track to rob Enmanuel Valdez of extra bases, keeping the game tied at 2-2. Hill then walked to lead off the bottom of the ninth, stole second base, and advanced to third on a throwing error. He ultimately scored on a wild pitch by David Bednar, securing the Marlins’ win.
Key Moment
The key moment of the game came when Hill scored on a wild pitch in the bottom of the ninth, giving the Marlins the walk-off victory.
Key Stat
The Marlins made history by winning three games with walkoffs to take their opening four-game series against the Pirates. This feat has not been achieved since Tampa Bay in 2003.
Up Next
The Marlins will face the Mets in Miami, with right-hander Cal Quantrill pitching on Monday. The Pirates will start a three-game road set against the Tampa Bay Rays, with Carmen Mlodzinski making his first start of the season.
Conclusion
The Miami Marlins’ thrilling victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates was a testament to their determination and skill. With Conine’s home run and Hill’s walk-off run, the team secured a memorable win. As the season progresses, the Marlins will look to build on this momentum and make a strong push for the playoffs.
FAQs
- Q: Who hit the home run for the Marlins?
- A: Griffin Conine hit the home run for the Marlins.
- Q: How did Derek Hill score the winning run?
- A: Derek Hill scored the winning run on a wild pitch in the bottom of the ninth inning.
- Q: What is the significance of Andrew McCutchen’s 800th career extra-base hit?
- A: Andrew McCutchen’s 800th career extra-base hit places him third among active players, behind Freddie Freeman and Paul Goldschmidt.
- Q: Who will pitch for the Marlins in their next game?
- A: Right-hander Cal Quantrill will pitch for the Marlins in their next game against the Mets.
