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Bryan Reynolds drove in 4 runs with a bases-loaded triple as the Pittsburgh Pirates dominated the Washington Nationals 16-5 last night. The explosive performance capped a dominant display that featured 16 hits and a masterful pitching start.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Final Score: Pirates 16, Nationals 5 on April 13 at PNC Park
- Reynolds’ Game: 2 hits, 4 RBIs including a triple in the 6th inning
- Paul Skenes: 6 innings, 1 hit, 6 strikeouts to earn the W (3-1)
- Pirates Offense: 16 hits, 2 home runs with 5 players with multiple RBIs
Reynolds Delivers in Explosive Sixth Inning
Bryan Reynolds broke the game wide open in a decisive sixth inning outburst. With the bases loaded, Reynolds ripped a triple to right field, bringing home three runs in a single swing. Earlier, the Pittsburgh outfielder had delivered an RBI single in the second inning. Reynolds finished 2-for-5 with his dominant performance putting the game beyond reach.
The 6th inning proved catastrophic for Washington, which saw 10 runs score in a stunning collapse. Brandon Lowe’s two-run homer highlighted the barrage, extending Pittsburgh’s lead to 15-1 before the Nationals ever scored again.
Bryan Reynolds drives in 4 as Pirates rout Nationals 16-5
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Skenes Dominates on the Mound for Pirates
Paul Skenes delivered a brilliant performance on the mound for Pittsburgh. The Pirates starter pitched 6.0 innings, allowing just 1 hit while striking out 6 batters. Skenes walked only 1 and gave up a single run, showcasing elite control and stuff. The victory improved his 2026 record to 3-1, continuing an impressive early-season run.
Opposing starter Cade Cavalli struggled mightily, allowing 4 runs on 3 hits in just 1.1 innings. Washington would turn to the bullpen early, but the damage had already been done as the Pirates established an insurmountable lead.
Pirates Unleash Offensive Firepower Against Nationals
Pittsburgh’s bats came alive against the Nationals pitching staff. The Pirates compiled 16 hits total, with multiple players contributing multiple RBIs. Oneil Cruz drove in 3 runs, while Brandon Lowe (2 RBIs) and Ryan O’Hearn (1 RBI) added to the onslaught. Spencer Horwitz and Konnor Griffin also powered home important runs in the decisive frame.
| Team | Hits | Runs | Home Runs |
| Pittsburgh Pirates | 16 | 16 | 2 |
| Washington Nationals | 8 | 5 | 2 |
The 16 hits for Pittsburgh represent a dominant offensive showing that overwhelmed Cavalli and subsequent Washington pitchers. Nationals hitter CJ Abrams provided a bright spot with a solo home run, but it proved insufficient against the Pirates**’ onslaught.
“That was an all-around great effort from our team tonight. Paul was brilliant on the mound, and our offense came through when it mattered most.”
— Pirates Manager Derek Shelton, Post-Game Remarks
Pirates Maintain Winning Form with Dominant Victory
Pittsburgh improved to 10-6 on the season with their emphatic 16-5 victory. The Pirates sit atop the NL Central standings, establishing themselves as an early force in the 2026 season. Reynolds’ performance exemplifies the depth and firepower Pittsburgh possesses throughout their lineup. With multiple weapons, the Pirates appear primed for a strong campaign.
Washington’s loss dropped them to 7-9, leaving the Nationals struggling in the NL East early standings. Cavalli’s rough outing raises questions about the team’s pitching depth as they head into the remainder of their early season schedule.
What’s Next for Both Teams in This Matchup?
The Pirates and Nationals continue their 4-game series tonight at PNC Park, with Pittsburgh seeking to extend their dominance. Washington will look to bounce back and avoid falling further behind in the NL East. Can Bryan Reynolds continue his hot start, and will Pittsburgh’s pitching staff maintain their excellence? The remainder of the series promises competitive baseball as both teams fight for early-season momentum.
Sources
- ESPN – Live boxscore and detailed game statistics
- MLB.com – Video highlights and official play-by-play records
- Associated Press – Game recap and post-game coverage
