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Isiah Kiner-Falefa's three hits lead Pirates to victory over struggling Mariners
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    Isiah Kiner-Falefa’s three hits lead Pirates to victory over struggling Mariners

    PITTSBURGH — Isiah Kiner-Falefa had three hits, including a first-inning homer, and the Pittsburgh Pirates beat the skidding Seattle Mariners 7-2 on Saturday.

    Rowdy Tellez and Jared Triolo also connected for the Pirates, who have won the first two games of the three-game series following a 10-game losing streak. Joey Bart added a pair of doubles.

    Pittsburgh left-hander Bailey Falter (6-7) matched a career-high with eight strikeouts while allowing two runs in 5 2/3 innings. He permitted eight hits and walked none.

    It was the fifth consecutive loss for Seattle, which began the day in second place in the AL West.

    The Pirates had to hang on in the ninth inning after the Mariners loaded the bases on a walk and two hit batters by Domingo German. David Bednar relieved and retired three straight batters for his 22nd save.

    Kiner-Falefa hit his first home run since he was acquired in a July 30 trade with Toronto, a 406-foot drive off Luis Castillo. It also was the first time the veteran infielder led off the first with a homer.

    Victor Robles hit a tying RBI single for Seattle in the second, but the Pirates went ahead to stay when Tellez connected for a two-run shot in the fourth.

    Triolo’s solo homer in the seventh off JT Chargois lifted Pittsburgh to a 5-2 lead.

    Castillo (10-12) permitted four runs and five hits in 5 1/3 innings. He struck out six and walked three.

    The right-hander had pitched at least six innings in each of his last seven starts.

    Robles, Jorge Polanco and Mitch Haniger had two hits apiece for the Mariners. Randy Arozarena struck out in each of his five at-bats.

    TRAINER’S ROOM

    Pirates: DH Andrew McCutchen (left knee inflammation) was placed on the 10-day injured list, and INF Alika Williams was recalled from Triple-A Indianapolis. … SS Oneil Cruz (left ankle discomfort) was in the lineup as the DH a day after departing in the seventh inning when he was injured running the bases. … LHP Ryan Borucki (left triceps inflammation) was scheduled to begin a rehab assignment Saturday night with Indianapolis.

    UP NEXT

    The three-game series concludes Sunday with RHP George Kirby (8-9, 3.42 ERA) starting for the Mariners. Kirby is the only pitcher in major league history with at least 50 career starts to have more starts (81) than walks (58).

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    In a thrilling matchup between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the struggling Seattle Mariners, Isiah Kiner-Falefa emerged as the hero of the game with three hits that ultimately led his team to victory. The Pirates, who have been struggling themselves in recent weeks, were able to turn things around with Kiner-Falefa’s impressive performance at the plate.

    Kiner-Falefa wasted no time making an impact in the game, as he got things started for the Pirates with a leadoff single in the first inning. His aggressive base running and smart decision-making on the base paths put pressure on the Mariners’ defense early on, setting the tone for the rest of the game.

    The versatile infielder continued to showcase his offensive prowess throughout the game, collecting two more hits in key situations to drive in runs and extend the Pirates’ lead. His ability to come through in clutch moments was instrumental in securing the victory for his team.

    In addition to his offensive contributions, Kiner-Falefa also made several impressive plays in the field, showcasing his defensive skills and versatility as a player. His all-around performance was a major factor in the Pirates’ success against the struggling Mariners.

    Overall, Isiah Kiner-Falefa’s standout performance was a reminder of his talent and potential as a player. His ability to make an impact on both sides of the ball was crucial in leading the Pirates to victory and providing a much-needed boost for the team. As the season progresses, fans can expect to see more impressive performances from Kiner-Falefa as he continues to make his mark in the league.