Ashcraft’s Historic 85-Pitch Shutout | MLB News

Braxton Ashcraft just delivered a historic masterpiece for the Pirates, tossing a complete game against the Marlins on just 85 pitches — striking out 10 batters in a 13-1 rout. His first major league complete game and the Pirates’ first this season, it’s also the first time since pitch tracking began in 1988 that a pitcher has gone nine innings with 10+ strikeouts on 85 pitches or fewer. Still finding his groove in his first full year as a starter, Ashcraft dominated with pinpoint command of his sinker and curveball, while rookie catcher Rafael Flores Jr. made his debut behind the plate and blasted two homers with six RBIs. The Pirates defense sealed the win with three double plays and stellar fielding, nearly achieving a shutout. This efficient, dominant performance is a huge confidence boost for Ashcraft and a vital spark for a struggling Pirates team. 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/27a640b01dda1756