The Pittsburgh Pirates bullpen failed to protect a one-run lead in the seventh inning Wednesday, and the St. Louis Cardinals took a 6-5 victory to complete a three-game series. The Cardinals took two of three games in the series, dropping the Pirates to 6-1/2 games back in the National League Central.
Pirates starting pitcher Chris Archer went six innings, allowing three runs on five hits. He walked three and struck out eight. Michael Feliz relieved Francisco Liriano in the seventh, and allowed a three-run home run to St. Louis first baseman Paul Goldschmidt.
Kevin Newman had three hits. Bryan Reynolds drove in three runs. Starling Marte hit his 16th home run.
It was the Pirates fifth loss in six games. The Bucs are off today and host Philadelphia this weekend.