League: MLB Sport: Baseball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Pirates struggle as bullpen falters in late loss to Reds

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 1:13 AM

Last updated Jun 28, 2026

Pirates struggle as bullpen falters in late loss to Reds

Summary

The Pittsburgh Pirates faced a 9-7 defeat against the Cincinnati Reds on June 27, 2026, after blowing a late lead. Pirates reliever Gregory Soto allowed a three-run home run in the bottom of the ninth, marking the club's 17th blown save of the season. The loss dropped the Pirates below.500, highlighting ongoing bullpen issues that have plagued their pursuit of postseason contention. The team has expressed a clear desire to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2015, but the current bullpen’s performance remains a significant hurdle.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Pirates blow a one-run lead in the ninth inning against Reds.
•Gregory Soto surrenders a critical three-run home run.
•This loss marks the Pirates' 17th blown save this season.
•Current bullpen ranks 19th in MLB with a 4.41 ERA.
•Pittsburgh's postseason aspirations are threatened by ongoing bullpen struggles.

Latest Updates

1:13 AMYahoo Sports — Pirates Won’t Be True Contenders With This Bullpen

What they're saying

"
PITTSBURGH — The Pirates have made their goal for 2026 clear. They want to make the postseason for the first […] The post Pirates Won’t Be True Contenders With This Bullpen appeared first on Pittsburgh Baseball Now.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Pittsburgh Pirates MLB Baseball