Phillies Secure Series Lead Over Pirates With 8-4 Win

The Philadelphia Phillies defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 8-4 in a rain-delayed game at Citizens Bank Park, taking a 1-0 lead in their three-game series. The Phillies rallied late in the seventh inning, capitalizing on four walks and a hit-by-pitch issued by the Pirates' bullpen, which has now blown nine saves this season. Bryce Harper drew a controversial walk on a disputed check swing call, loading the bases and sparking the four-run inning that turned the game around. Alexander Canario's three-run home run had briefly given the Pirates a 3-1 lead, but the bullpen faltered against the Phillies' offense, allowing Philadelphia to score five runs in the final innings. Pittsburgh starter Andrew Heaney pitched well initially but was chased early, putting pressure on the Pirates' relief pitchers. Despite some defensive highlights, the Pirates have struggled on the road, dropping eight of their last nine away games and falling to 15-30 overall.