The Atlanta Braves completed a three-game series sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates following a 14-2 victory Thursday afternoon at PNC Park. Starting pitcher Mitch Keller was knocked around for seven runs in 3-2/3rds innings, but was not helped defensively. Just two of the runs were earned after the Pirates committed three errors, two by first baseman Josh VanMeter.
During the game, shortstop Oneil Cruz made national headlines by hitting a ball off the Clemente Wall in right field which traveled 122.4 miles per hour. It was the hardest-hit ball since Statcast began recording such hits in 2015.
The Pirates are off today, then begin a weekend series in Philadelphia Friday night. They are now 47-77 this season.
Major League Baseball released its 2023 schedule. Every team will play each other for at least one series next season. The Pirates will open their season in Cincinnati March 30th next year. They host the Chicago White Sox for their home opener Friday, April 7th.