Pirates end losing-season streak as Paul Skenes reaches 200 strikeouts

The Pittsburgh Pirates secured their first non-losing season since 2018 with a 2-1 victory over St. Louis on Thursday. Spencer Horwitz’s eighth-inning sacrifice fly brought home the deciding run as Pittsburgh reached 81 wins in its final home game.

Ronny Simon created the opportunity by drawing a leadoff walk against Ryne Stanek. A wild pitch and an errant throw from catcher Iván Herrera moved him to third before Horwitz’s fly ball to center scored him.

Paul Skenes finished his season with eight strikeouts over 6 1/3 innings, reaching 200 for the year. He allowed three hits, two walks and one run, with Alec Burleson’s first-inning homer accounting for St. Louis’ scoring.

Mason Montgomery struck out the side in the ninth for his 17th save. Pittsburgh improved to 81-78 with three games remaining at Detroit, leaving one more victory needed to clinch a winning record.