Kikuchi delivers six scoreless innings as Angels beat Pirates 6-1
Yusei Kikuchi earned his first win of the season in his third start since returning from left shoulder inflammation.
Yusei Kikuchi pitched six scoreless innings as the Los Angeles Angels defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 6-1 on Saturday night, earning his first win of the season.
Kikuchi allowed five hits and three walks while striking out six. The 35-year-old two-time All-Star improved his record to 1-5 in his third start since returning on 23 August from left shoulder inflammation.
The Angels took the lead in the fourth inning before Josh Lowe hit a solo home run in the fifth. Pittsburgh starter Braxton Ashcraft struck out nine but allowed three runs on seven hits across five innings.
Los Angeles added three runs in the seventh, with Mike Trout driving in one and Wade Meckler bringing home two with a double. Bryan Reynolds hit Pittsburgh’s only run, a solo home run in the eighth inning.
The AP report said the Pirates were scheduled to start Paul Skenes in the series finale against Angels right-hander Walbert Ureña.
