Ashcraft’s Masterclass, Managed Smart | Pittsburgh Pirates News

Braxton Ashcraft dominated again, throwing eight sparkling innings and allowing just one run—almost a complete game—before manager Don Kelly pulled him for the save. Fans booed, but the move was strategic: Ashcraft’s already logged over 140 innings this season, and with injury history, the Pirates are prioritizing his long-term health. Facing left-handed hitters in the ninth, a lefty reliever made sense. Ashcraft, who thrives on finishing games, embraces the team’s plan while continuing to dazzle with elite efficiency—throwing first-pitch strikes and keeping pitch counts low. He’s now in rare company: one of only a few pitchers since 2000 to average under 10 pitches per inning for eight innings, and one of three since 1988 to post back-to-back starts with eight+ innings, one or zero runs, and 85 pitches or fewer. His dominance isn’t just impressive—it’s historic. 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/c6a2a5f8e0a9ec8a