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sports18h ago
Pirates Strategically Take Two Best Hitters Out vs. Brewers
- The Pirates benched two top hitters, Oneil Cruz and Brandon Lowe, for the series finale against the Brewers.
- Billy Cook started in center field and Nick Gonzales moved to second base as Lowe’s replacement.
- The lineup decision aimed to counter left-handed Brewers pitching, with Kyle Harrison on the mound.
- Only Ryan O’Hearn, who hits left-handed, appeared as the only left-handed hitter in the Pirates’ lineup.
- Cruz has had a strong season against left-handed pitchers, with a 1.090 OPS in 2026 against southpaws.
- Cruz could return later as a pinch-hitter or pinch-runner during the 13-game stretch.
- The Pirates maintained the rest of the lineup, keeping Ryan O’Hearn at first and Nick Yorke at third.
- The article notes Cruz's absence as part of a broader strategic move rather than a punishment.
- Dominic Campbell, Pittsburgh contributor, provided the report with insights on the lineup change.
- The article quotes the team’s intention to win a sweep against the Brewers on the road.
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