Tough Loss in Close Game Against Pirates 
Hey Cards fans,We had a nail-biter today as our St. Louis Cardinals fell just short against the Pittsburgh Pirates, losing 3-2. Despite a strong effort, especially from Brendan Donovan, who was on fire, our boys couldn't pull it off in the final inning. Let's dive into the game recap.
Pitcher's Duel Early On 
Both teams started off strong on the mound. In the first inning, the Pirates managed to get Isiah Kiner-Falefa in scoring position, but our defense held steady, with Nolan Arenado making some key plays. Our bats were quiet in the bottom of the first, but let's not forget—this is a 9-inning game!Donovan and Goldschmidt Shine 
In the 2nd inning, Brendan Donovan got us our first hit, and Lars Nootbaar drew a walk to build some momentum. However, we couldn't capitalize as Jordan Walker and Pedro Pagés were unable to bring the runners home.Pirates Take the Lead and Cardinals Respond 
The Pirates got on the scoreboard first in the 4th inning with a sacrifice fly by Bryan De La Cruz, but our boys responded immediately. Key singles from Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado set up Donovan to drive in Goldy, tying the game 1-1. Sadly, a double play ended our chances to do more damage.Battle in the 6th and Pirates Strike Back 
Our moment came in the bottom of the 6th when Goldschmidt singled and moved to second on a steal (yes, Goldy showing the wheels!). Donovan then doubled, scoring Goldschmidt and giving us a 2-1 lead. Unfortunately, in the 7th inning, Yasmani Grandal homered to right to tie it up again. We just couldn't keep them down.Heartbreaking 8th Inning 
The Pirates reclaimed the lead 3-2 in the 8th inning after Ji-Man Choi (pinch-hitting for Rowdy Tellez) singled, followed by Nick Gonzales who brought home Oneil Cruz. It was a nail-biting sequence that saw Zack Thompson come in to limit further damage.Ninth Inning Heartbreak 
Despite some last-ditch efforts in the bottom of the 9th (thanks, Donovan for another single!), we just couldn't get that tying run home. Pedro Pagés grounded into a fielder's choice to end the game, and that was it. Final Thoughts 
It's never fun to lose, especially not in such a close game. However, there are many positives to take away. Brendan Donovan looked phenomenal, and Paul Goldschmidt showed his veteran prowess yet again. We need to tighten up on converting opportunities and keep our heads up. There's always the next game, and we'll be back stronger!Go Cards!
️Scoreboard for Pirates @ Cardinals (September 19th, 2024)
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | R | H | E | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 6 | 0 |
| 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 8 | 0 |