Pirates lose to Angels in missed wild card race opportunity

The Pittsburgh Pirates dropped a 6-1 decision to the Los Angeles Angels at PNC Park on Saturday night. Despite starting Braxton Ashcraft, who allowed three runs over four and one-third innings, the Pirates struggled to generate offense against Angels starter Yusei Kikuchi. Kikuchi held the Pittsburgh lineup scoreless through six innings to secure the win. The result leaves the Pirates with a 70-73 record and five games back in the National League wild card race. Pittsburgh failed to capitalize on losses by other contenders in the playoff hunt, including the Padres and the Marlins. With only 19 games remaining in the season, the team faces an upcoming stretch against the White Sox, Cubs, and Brewers.

• 3:29 AMYahoo Sports — Pirates Miss Big Opportunity in Wild Card Race With Loss to Angels