Pirates Late Comeback Not Enough to Defeat Tigers

The Pittsburgh Pirates fell to the Detroit Tigers 8-7 in their series opener on Friday. Pittsburgh had Bubba Chandler on the mound for his final start of the season, but he struggled, only making it through 2.2 innings and allowing four hits, four walks, and six earned runs.

Wilber Dotel gave up the remaining two runs in his three innings of relief, with one earned run and one unearned run. Evan Sisk and Brandon Eisert both had scoreless outings out of the bullpen.

It wasn't an impressive outing from Chandler, but the offense had some great moments. Catcher Rafael Flores Jr. led the way with a three-run home run, cutting Detroit's lead to one run in the 8th.

However, the Pirates didn't score after that and lost the game. Pittsburgh is now 81-79 in the 2026 season with two games remaining. If they win one of their last two remaining games, they will finish above .500.

Flores has been one of the bright spots for the team, as he's slashing .271/.340/.542 with 11 home runs, six doubles, 25 RBIs, 17 runs, and an .881 OPS. He has played in 46 games and is poised to have a larger role in the Pirates' lineup in the 2027 season. 

While Flores has enjoyed a nice season, Chandler hasn't been as consistent. The 24-year-old put up decent numbers, with a 4.62 ERA, 140 strikeouts, 80 walks, and a 1.40 WHIP.

The Pirates will be looking to end their playoff drought in 2027 and will need Chandler to live up to his potential and have a more productive season.

Pittsburgh will also need their star starter, Paul Skenes, to have a better season after posting a 3.82 ERA with 200 strikeouts, 49 walks, and a 1.12 WHIP. If he can return to his NL Cy Young level, it will help the Pirates make a playoff push.

Beyond getting more production from their pitching, they will also need to add to their lineup. Re-signing Brandon Lowe is a must after his great season, slashing .260/.331/.490 with 34 home runs, 29 doubles, 95 RBIs, 93 runs, and an .821 OPS.

The Pirates can't afford to lose him, as he's been their best hitter all season long. Pittsburgh will also need to pursue more bats in free agency.

The Pirates will look to finish out their final two games against the Tigers strong and head into the offseason, where they will need to make some upgrades to the roster.