Pittsburgh Pirates beat Tigers as Oneil Cruz returns from injury

The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Detroit Tigers 4-1 at PNC Park, highlighted by the return of outfielder Oneil Cruz from the 60-day injured list. Cruz, who had been sidelined since June 6 due to non-displaced fractures in his left hand, hit a two-run home run in his first game back, tying the Pirates' single-season home run record at PNC Park.

Pitcher Braxton Ashcraft delivered a dominant performance, throwing eight innings with eight pitches, allowing only one run on five hits while striking out four and issuing no walks. Ashcraft became the first Pirates pitcher since 2012 to follow a complete game with at least eight innings in his next start.

Pirates management noted that Cruz’s return will be managed progressively to account for potential swelling and pain from bat contact. The team is looking to utilize Cruz in various roles, including center field and designated hitter, as they pursue a postseason Wild Card spot.