Pirates Blank Athletics 2-0: Bubba Chandler Leads One-Hitter, Yorke and Reynolds Homer to Snap Losing Streak

Saturday, September 20th, 2025

Pirates' Pitching Dominates as They Shut Out Athletics 2-0

Rookie Bubba Chandler and two relievers combined for an impressive one-hitter as the Pittsburgh Pirates snapped their five-game losing streak with a 2-0 victory over the Athletics. The Pirates leaned on timely home runs from Nick Yorke and Bryan Reynolds to secure the win on Saturday night.

Game Recap

Bubba Chandler was outstanding on the mound, surrendering only a two-out double to Jacob Wilson in the second inning. Over his outing, Chandler struck out six and allowed no walks, continuing his strong form after rebounding from a tough loss earlier in the month.

Following Chandler, Braxton Ashcraft entered and delivered three perfect innings, racking up six strikeouts of his own. Dennis Santana closed out the game with a flawless ninth inning, earning his 14th save of the season and first since early September.

The Pirates' offense provided just enough support. Rookie Nick Yorke hit his first home run of the season, a two-out blast in the second inning. In the third, Bryan Reynolds added insurance with a 416-foot solo shot to right-center, his sixteenth homer of the year.

Athletics’ Struggles at the Plate

The Athletics managed just one hit all night. Other than Wilson’s double, their only other baserunner came when Brett Harris was hit by a pitch in the third inning. Chandler ensured both runners were left stranded.

Pitching Performances

Athletics rookie starter Luis Morales pitched six solid innings, allowing both Pirates home runs as part of five total hits. Morales struck out four and walked two in the effort.

Nick Yorke led the Pirates' offense with two of the team's five hits. The Pirates have now won just their second game in the last 14, while the Athletics recorded their second loss in their last nine games.

Key Moment

Jacob Wilson was the only Athletics runner to reach second base, but was left stranded in the second inning when JJ Bleday flied out to end the frame, preserving the Pirates' early lead.

Key Stat

The game lasted just one hour and 52 minutes, a swift contest dominated by excellent pitching from both teams.

Up Next

The Pirates will send right-hander Mike Burrows (2-4, 4.10 ERA) to the mound in the series finale on Sunday. He’ll face off against the Athletics' Mitch Spence (3-5, 4.48 ERA) in the decisive game of their three-game set.

In summary

Pittsburgh Pirates showcased elite pitching as Bubba Chandler, Braxton Ashcraft, and Dennis Santana combined for a one-hit shutout against the Athletics. Key home runs by Nick Yorke and Bryan Reynolds powered the Pirates to a much-needed win. Strong defensive performances and quick pitching kept the game moving at a rapid pace, highlighting the Pirates' potential for the remainder of the season.

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