PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates (8-12) shut out the Washington Nationals (7-12) 1-0 in a tightly contested game at PNC Park on April 17, 2025, powered by a solo home run from Oneil Cruz and a stellar performance from pitcher Andrew Heaney. The victory snapped a three-game skid for the Pirates, while the Nationals struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, going 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position.
Cruz provided the game’s only run, launching a solo home run—his fourth of the season—off Nationals starter Trevor Williams in the first inning. The Pirates’ pitching staff, led by Heaney, held the Nationals to five hits, with no runner advancing past second base. Heaney (1-1, 2.13 ERA) pitched 7.1 scoreless innings, allowing five hits, two walks, and striking out four. Relievers Ryan Borucki and Dennis Santana closed out the game, with Santana earning his second save of the season.
The Nationals’ offense couldn’t find a rhythm against Heaney’s command. Nathaniel Lowe led Washington with two hits, including a double, while JoJo Call, Amed Rosario, and Dylan Crews each added a single. Despite their efforts, the Nationals grounded into a double play and left six runners on base. Williams (1-2, 5.95 ERA) took the loss, allowing one run on three hits over five innings, with three walks and five strikeouts. Relievers Lucas Sims and Joan Ferrer kept the Pirates scoreless over the final three innings, but the offense failed to respond.
Both teams recorded five hits and committed no errors, showcasing crisp defensive play. The Pirates drew four walks compared to the Nationals’ two, and Cruz’s stolen base—his ninth of the season—added pressure on Washington’s defense. Pittsburgh’s efficiency was evident, as they also turned a double play to stifle a Nationals rally.
The game, played in sunny 47-degree weather before 12,748 fans, lasted 2 hours and 11 minutes. The Pirates’ win moved them to 5th in the NL Central, while the Nationals remained 4th in the NL East. The low-scoring affair highlighted the importance of pitching in early-season matchups, a trend noted in MLB’s 2025 season analysis, where strong starting pitching has defined close games.
For the Nationals, the loss underscored their struggle to convert scoring chances, a recurring issue in their 7-12 start. The Pirates, meanwhile, leaned on Cruz’s power and Heaney’s precision to secure a much-needed victory. Both teams now prepare for upcoming series, with the Nationals facing the Reds and the Pirates taking on the Brewers.
