Pitcher earns first win since 2024 in 9-4 victory

A left-handed pitcher secured his first win since May 2024 after allowing two runs over six innings in a 9-4 victory on Sunday. The team scored eight runs in the second inning, giving the starter an early lead. He threw 66 pitches through three innings, prompting the manager to deliver a pep talk before the fourth.

The pitcher allowed four hits and one walk while recording seven strikeouts. He retired nine consecutive batters after giving up a leadoff double in the fourth inning. He had not completed six innings in any of his first five starts this season. After the game, he said the early pitch count forced adjustments to finish outs more quickly.

The manager said the pitcher responded well to the challenge and pitched with more confidence afterward. The starter described the message as a reminder to attack from the first pitch rather than letting the game flow dictate his approach. The win salvaged one game in the three-game series.

The pitcher had posted a 2-0 record with a 2.57 ERA in five starts in 2024 before undergoing Tommy John surgery.