Wed Sep 18 03:06:37 UTC 2024: ## Pirates Fall to Cardinals, But Rookie Yorke Shines in Debut
ST. LOUIS – Despite falling to the St. Louis Cardinals 3-1 Tuesday night, the Pittsburgh Pirates saw a glimpse of the future in the form of rookie infielder Nick Yorke. Making his major league debut a day earlier, Yorke tallied three hits in the game, showcasing the potential that led to his acquisition from the Red Sox at the trade deadline.
Yorke, who was red-hot in the Pirates’ minor league system, impressed manager Derek Shelton with his “good at-bats” and “good swing.” He collected his first major league hit in the 4th inning off Cardinals starter Lance Lynn, and added two more singles, including one against All-Star closer Ryan Helsley in the 9th.
“At the end of the day, whoever is on the mound, I’m going to do my best to try to get a base hit and find a barrel,” said Yorke. “Just got a pitch I could handle there.”
While the Pirates offense struggled overall, starter Bailey Falter pitched well, going 7.2 innings and allowing just two earned runs on four hits. He was ultimately the losing pitcher, however, as the team couldn’t provide him with enough run support.
The Cardinals scored their first run in the 3rd inning on a triple by Luken Baker, and added another in the 4th on a solo home run by Jordan Walker. The final run came in the 9th on a sacrifice fly by Nolan Arenado off reliever Dennis Santana.
The lone bright spot for the Pirates offense was Bryan De La Cruz, who hit a solo homer in the 2nd inning, his 20th of the season. The Pirates were out-hit 5-8 by the Cardinals, but still managed to score 27 runs in their 11 games against St. Louis this season.
Despite the loss, the Pirates remain focused on developing their young talent and building for the future. With two weeks left in the season, players like Yorke and De La Cruz provide a reason for optimism moving forward.
First Piper 