Sun Apr 27 01:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Pirates’ Oneil Cruz Steals Show with Power and Speed, Leading Team to Victory
**ANAHEIM, CA** – Oneil Cruz continued his hot streak, powering the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 3-0 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday night. The electrifying performance featured his Major League-leading 11th stolen base – extending his incredible streak to 31 consecutive successful steals dating back to April 22, 2024 – and a mammoth 463-foot home run.
This marked the fourth time this season Cruz has recorded both a home run and a stolen base in the same game, a feat achieved by only 19 other Pirates in a single season since 1901. With only 25 games played, Cruz is on pace for an historically significant offensive season.
Cruz attributes his success to hard work, mentorship from veteran teammates like Andrew McCutchen and Tommy Pham, and growing confidence in his abilities. Manager Derek Shelton praised Cruz’s confidence, both at the plate and on the basepaths, and his impact at the top of the lineup, a position that previously plagued the team’s offense.
Cruz’s stolen base streak is closing in on franchise history. Only Tony Womack (32 consecutive steals in 1997) boasts a longer streak for the Pirates since 1951, when the statistic became official. A pre-1951 streak of 37 consecutive steals by Max Carey also stands as a benchmark. Cruz’s recovery from a 2023 ankle injury has been key to his resurgence on the basepaths, as he is now back to his pre-injury form.
The 463-foot home run was not only the longest by a Pirate this season but also one of the longest ever hit by a visiting player at Angel Stadium. Manager Shelton expressed his astonishment at the sheer distance of the blast.
The Pirates are finding offensive rhythm, with Cruz’s performance providing a much-needed spark. While individual achievements are important, Cruz emphasizes the team’s success above all else, stating his priority is securing wins for the Pirates.
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