Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
A cubist interpretation of the dramatic extra-inning showdown between the NL Central rivals.Today in Pittsburgh
The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Chicago Cubs 4-3 on Saturday, clinching the three-game series. Pitcher Yohan Ramírez escaped bases-loaded jams in the 10th and 11th innings to preserve the win for the NL Central-leading Pirates, who took advantage of a throwing error by Cubs reliever Caleb Thielbar to score the go-ahead run in the 11th. Oneil Cruz had a standout game for the Pirates, going 4-for-5 with a double and three stolen bases.
Why it matters
The Pirates’ victory over their division rival Cubs extends their lead atop the NL Central standings and demonstrates their resilience in close, high-pressure games. Ramírez’s clutch pitching performance will be a key confidence boost for the team as they continue their push for the playoffs.
The details
The game was tied 3-3 heading into extra innings. In the 10th, Ramírez escaped a bases-loaded jam by getting Dansby Swanson to ground out. In the 11th, Ramírez worked around an error that put runners on second and third with no outs, striking out Seiya Suzuki to end the threat. In the top of the 11th, Brandon Lowe’s infield single, combined with a throwing error by Thielbar, allowed the go-ahead run to score for the Pirates.
The game was played on Saturday, April 11, 2026.The Pirates clinched the three-game series against the Cubs.
The players
Yohan Ramírez
The Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher who escaped bases-loaded jams in the 10th and 11th innings to preserve the win.
Oneil Cruz
The Pittsburgh Pirates player who went 4-for-5 with a double and three stolen bases.
Caleb Thielbar
The Chicago Cubs reliever whose throwing error allowed the go-ahead run to score for the Pirates in the 11th inning.
Braxton Ashcraft
The Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher who struck out a career-high 9 batters in 5 innings.
Edward Cabrera
The Chicago Cubs starting pitcher who allowed 3 runs on 8 hits and 3 walks in 5 innings.
Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›
What they’re saying
“Yohan Ramírez’s clutch pitching in those high-leverage situations was the difference maker for us today. He really stepped up when we needed him most.”
— Derek Shelton, Pittsburgh Pirates Manager
What’s next
The Pirates and Cubs will wrap up their series on Sunday, with Pittsburgh RHP Bubba Chandler facing off against Cubs RHP Jameson Taillon.
The takeaway
The Pirates’ ability to grind out a victory in a tight, extra-inning affair against a division rival demonstrates their resilience and composure as they look to maintain their lead atop the NL Central standings.