Pirates Vs. Cardinals Game Highlights (4/14/23) | Mlb Highlights

The St. Louis Cardinals were determined to avenge their shutout defeat in the series opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Pirates, however, had their own plans for a victory in the second game of the four-game series at Busch Stadium.

A Controversial Start

The Pirates' leadoff man, G1 Bay, was quick to make his presence known. It appeared that he had been hit by a pitch, but the Cardinals' catcher, Contreras, urged the umpire to review the play. Upon closer inspection, it became clear that the pitch had missed Bay. The Cardinals contemplated challenging the call right off the bat, setting the tone for an exciting game ahead.

Quick Outs for the Pirates

In the top of the first inning, the Pirates managed to get a hit but failed to score. Cardinals' pitcher Jake Woodford effortlessly handled the situation, making it an easy first inning for his team. The Pirates knew they would have to step up their game if they wanted to come out on top.

Cardinals Struggling to Score

As the game progressed, both teams struggled to put runs on the scoreboard. The Cardinals had the opportunity to take the lead in the bottom of the second inning with Donovan Paul Goldsmith at-bat. However, he was struck out, leaving the Cardinals scoreless once again. The tension began to build as both teams searched for a breakthrough.

Pirates Threaten, Cardinals Respond

The Pirates had their chance to take the lead in the top of the fourth inning. With a runner in scoring position, Mark Mathias stepped up to the plate. He hit a sharp shot to right field, hoping to bring the runner home. But the Cardinals' outfielder, Burleson, made a spectacular play, throwing the ball to the plate just in time. Catcher Contreras caught the ball and tagged the runner out, ending the inning and preserving the Cardinals' scoreless streak.

Cardinals Break the Silence

Finally, in the bottom of the sixth inning, the Cardinals managed to break their scoreless streak. Nolan Gorman came through with a clutch hit, bringing in the first run of the game. The crowd erupted with excitement as the Cardinals took a 1-0 lead. The silence had been shattered, and the game was far from over.

Stellar Performances from Pitchers

Both teams relied on their pitchers to keep the game close. Pirates' pitcher Johan Oviedo had an outstanding performance, striking out Donovan Paul Goldsmith and keeping the Cardinals' offense at bay. Cardinals' pitcher Brian Hader also had his best showing of the season, striking out a career-high 10 batters.

Cardinals Add Insurance Runs

In the eighth inning, the Cardinals added to their lead. Wilson Contreras, who had been struggling at the plate, finally broke his hitless streak with a crucial base hit that brought in another run. Nolan Gorman followed suit with a timely hit of his own, driving in two runs and extending the Cardinals' lead to 3-0. The Pirates had a mountain to climb in their last attempt to stage a comeback.

Cardinals Secure the Win

In their final effort to close the gap, the Pirates fell short. The Cardinals' Giovanni Gallegos took the mound for his first save opportunity of the season and delivered an impressive performance, securing the shutout for the Cardinals. The final score was 3-0 in favor of the Cardinals.

Conclusion

The second game of the series between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the St. Louis Cardinals was a well-fought battle. The Cardinals showed resilience and determination, breaking their scoreless streak and securing a shutout victory. Both teams demonstrated exceptional pitching, but it was the Cardinals who came out on top. The series was now tied at 1-1, promising more excitement in the next games to come.