Pirates Face Another Brutal Test As Sweep Threat Looms In LA

The Dodgers make a strategic lineup adjustment as they aim for a series sweep against the Pirates, with lefty ace Blake Snell taking the mound.

The Dodgers are one win away from a sweep of the Pirates, and they’ll try to finish the job Sunday afternoon at UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium.

Los Angeles has already handled business in two tight games, winning Friday’s opener in walk-off style before grinding out another one-run victory Saturday. That sets up a chance to push the winning streak to six before the team heads on the road for a big series against the Atlanta Braves.

Blake Snell gets the ball for the Dodgers, and he’s been sharp since returning from the injured list less than two weeks ago. In two starts, Snell has given up two runs in 12 innings for a 1.50 ERA. He’s struck out 15, walked four and allowed only five hits.

Pittsburgh is taking a different route, going with a bullpen game that starts with right-hander Lake Bachar. It’s the second time Bachar has opened for the Pirates this season, and his sixth opening assignment overall in 2026 after spending the first half of the year with the Miami Marlins.

Bachar has posted a 3.75 ERA in 43 appearances, covering 69.2 innings between the two teams. Since the Pirates acquired him ahead of the trade deadline, he’s worked to a 3.27 ERA over five outings and 11 innings. He also saw the Dodgers on Friday, throwing a scoreless inning while walking three and striking out one.

There is one change to Los Angeles’ lineup: Feduccia is back in and batting ninth. Otherwise, the Dodgers are running out the same group they used Saturday.

First pitch is set for 1:10 p.m. PT/4:10 p.m.

ET on Sunday, Aug. 23.

The game will air on SportsNet LA and in the MLB app, with radio coverage on AM570 in English and KTNQ 1020 AM in Spanish.

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