Andrew McCutchen's 20th Homer of Season Paves Way for Pirates Victory Over Marlins

Bucs Win 4-3 in Series Opener

Andrew McCutchen's 20th home run of the season broke a 3-3 tie in the seventh inning and lifted the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 4-3 victory over the Miami Marlins on Tuesday night at PNC Park.

McCutchen's homer off Marlins reliever Brad Hand came on a 2-1 count and traveled 389 feet to left field. It was McCutchen's first homer since July 25 and gave the Pirates their first lead of the game.

The Pirates added an insurance run in the eighth inning on an RBI single by Bryan Reynolds. Ke'Bryan Hayes led off the inning with a double and moved to third on a groundout by Oneil Cruz. Reynolds then singled to right field to score Hayes and give the Pirates a 4-3 lead.

The Pirates bullpen held the Marlins scoreless over the final 2 1/3 innings to secure the victory. David Bednar pitched a scoreless seventh inning, and Chris Stratton pitched a scoreless eighth inning. Duane Underwood Jr. earned his first save of the season with a 1-2-3 ninth inning.

The Pirates improved to 49-51 with the victory, while the Marlins fell to 47-53.

McCutchen Continues to Impress

McCutchen's home run was his 20th of the season, which is tied for the most in the National League. He is now just one home run away from tying his total from last season.

McCutchen has been one of the Pirates' most consistent hitters all season. He is batting .250 with 20 home runs and 60 RBIs.

McCutchen's home run on Tuesday night was a big moment for the Pirates. It gave them their first lead of the game and helped them to secure the victory.

Pirates Bullpen Shines

The Pirates bullpen was excellent on Tuesday night, allowing just one hit over the final 2 1/3 innings.

David Bednar, Chris Stratton, and Duane Underwood Jr. combined to retire all seven batters they faced.

The Pirates bullpen has been one of the team's strengths all season. They have a 3.45 ERA, which is seventh-best in the Major Leagues.

Upcoming Games

The Pirates will continue their series against the Marlins on Wednesday night at PNC Park. Mitch Keller will start for the Pirates, while Edward Cabrera will start for the Marlins.

The Pirates will then open a three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers on Friday night at American Family Field.