Episode
Pirates’ Magic Man Shines | Pittsburgh News
- Published
- Jul 14, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 104
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://sources.thednn.ai/97c34dbcc4b1c3c0
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Summary
The Pittsburgh Pirates are flying under the radar with a surprising 50-47 record, just two games behind the wild card race after sweeping the Brewers. Rookie outfielder Esmerlyn Valdez, dubbed “The Magician,” is smashing expectations with a .300+ average, 10 homers, and 27 RBIs in just 28 games — including a jaw-dropping grand slam in a win over Milwaukee. Catcher Endy Rodríguez is finally healthy and leading the team behind the plate, though he’s sidelined now with a minor strain. Pitcher Braxton Ashcraft is dominating with a 9-3 record and an ERA under 4, earning an All-Star nod. And third baseman Nick Gonzales is hitting .300+, powering the offense. This isn’t just a bounce-back season — it’s a breakout year for a team nobody expected to be this competitive. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: [email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/97c34dbcc4b1c3c0