SPORTS

Konnor Griffin has 4 hits as the Pirates rally past the Royals to reach .500

PUBLISHED Sep 18, 2026, 10:08 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 29

Left 3%

Center 90%

Right 7%

Sources: 29

Rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin recorded four hits and Brandon Lowe launched a home run, lifting the Pittsburgh Pirates to an 8-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals. Powered by a 15-hit offensive attack at PNC Park, the Pirates overcame an early deficit to bring their record back to an even .500 late in the regular season. Griffin, who returned from the injured list earlier in September, keyed multiple rallies with decisive contact and speed, helping back up the Pittsburgh pitching staff. Kansas City struck early against starter Paul Skenes, but relief pitching faltered as the Royals dropped another game on the year. The win keeps the Pirates fighting for late-season momentum as the schedule winds down. Both teams continue their respective closing stretches of the Major League Baseball campaign, with Pittsburgh aiming to secure a winning record.

By Ayesha A. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On July 8 2024 the organization drafted Konnor Griffin as ninth overall pick.
On April 3 2026 Konnor Griffin made his major league debut with Pittsburgh.
On September 4 2026 Pittsburgh activated Konnor Griffin from the injured list.
On September 19 2026 Konnor Griffin delivered four hits against Kansas City Royals.
On September 19 2026 Brandon Lowe hit his home run during the game tonight.
On September 19 2026 Paul Skenes pitched six innings allowing five runs today.
On September 19 2026 Yohan Ramirez took the win as relief pitcher tonight.
On September 19 2026 Pittsburgh collected fifteen total hits during the game tonight.
On September 19 2026 Pittsburgh defeated Kansas City by an eight to five score.
On September 19 2026 Pittsburgh improved their season record back to an even.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Pittsburgh reaches even record boosting late season team momentum significantly.
Possible long-term US impact: Young core development shapes franchise competitiveness for upcoming seasons.
Most affected groups: Sports fans, baseball enthusiasts, and Pittsburgh followers are most affected.
Reader priority: Readers should prioritize official league box scores and verified recaps.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 29
Right Leaning:: 2
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 26

Explain Framing

Left: Highlighting youth development impact and team rebuilding progress successfully. Center: Reporting game facts statistics player performances and standings neutrally. Right: Emphasizing veteran performance contributions financial investments and roster power.