Context:

The Pittsburgh Pirates snapped an eight-game losing streak by defeating the Minnesota Twins 2-1, thanks to Spencer Horwitz's bases-loaded RBI ground out in the ninth inning. Isiah Kiner-Falefa was instrumental with four hits, while Ke'Bryan Hayes, Oneil Cruz, and Kiner-Falefa's singles loaded the bases, setting up Horwitz's decisive play. Dennis Santana and David Bednar contributed on the mound with a scoreless eighth and Bednar securing his 13th save. Despite a strong performance from Mitch Keller, who allowed just one run over six innings, the Pirates struggled to support him offensively, a recurring issue noted by his 14 quality starts being among the best in the majors. Minnesota's Byron Buxton, Carlos Correa, and Harrison Bader each secured two hits, but the team failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities, concluding their homestand at 6-3 without reaching a .500 record since mid-June.

Dive Deeper:

• Spencer Horwitz's decisive RBI ground out in the ninth inning allowed the Pittsburgh Pirates to break an eight-game losing streak by winning 2-1 against the Minnesota Twins. This play occurred after the bases were loaded following hits by Ke'Bryan Hayes, Oneil Cruz, and Isiah Kiner-Falefa.

• Isiah Kiner-Falefa was a standout performer for the Pirates, tying his career high with four hits, significantly contributing to the team's offensive efforts and helping set the stage for the game-winning play.

• Dennis Santana and David Bednar played crucial roles in the Pirates' victory, with Santana pitching a scoreless eighth inning and Bednar earning his 13th save of the season, ensuring the Twins could not capitalize on their opportunities.

• Mitch Keller's performance was notable as he allowed only one run over six innings, maintaining his high level of play with 14 quality starts, a record tied for second in the majors. Unfortunately, the Pirates have struggled to provide him with run support, scoring one or zero runs in 11 of his 20 starts.

• The Twins' Byron Buxton, Carlos Correa, and Harrison Bader each recorded two hits, but the team struggled to convert these into runs, missing opportunities to break the tie in the eighth inning and ultimately failing to reach a .500 record for the homestand.

• Despite Tommy Pham's homer in the second inning for Pittsburgh, the game remained tied 1-1 until the ninth inning, highlighting the pitching strengths on both sides and the challenge of breaking through defensively.

• Both teams are set to return to action after the All-Star break, with the Pirates hosting the Chicago White Sox and the Twins traveling to Colorado, aiming to improve their standings and address ongoing challenges.