Pirates' Oneil Cruz Hits Two Homers in 6-5 Win Over Brewers

Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Oneil Cruz showcased his immense power in a thrilling 6-5 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers by hitting two solo home runs, marking the first multi-home run game of his career. Cruz's first homer came in the third inning with a 442-foot blast at 117.9 mph, the hardest exit velocity of his career, breaking a 24-game home run drought since April 26. He then tied the game in the ninth inning with another clutch home run traveling 427 feet, helping push the game into extra innings where the Pirates eventually won. Cruz's performance raised his OPS to .822 and highlighted his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments, which he said are the situations players want to be in to grow. Prior to this, Cruz had demonstrated his power with four leadoff home runs and the first grand slam of his career earlier in the season. His overall stats include a .229 batting average, 10 home runs, 21 RBIs, and an MLB-leading 18 stolen bases, underscoring his value as a dynamic and powerful player.