--- title: "Cole Young hits two-run seventh to lift Mariners past Pirates 3-2" description: "Seattle rookie delivers clutch blast in tight game, staking claim to Mariners' lineup spot" url: https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/cole-young-hits-a-two-run-home-run-in-the-seventh-to-lift-ma-f42ca15f published: 2026-06-30T23:25:15.605+00:00 updated: 2026-06-30T23:25:15.605+00:00 author: "Kostadin Stamboliev" publisher: "Pineido" site: "Sportopod" language: en topics: ["baseball"] --- # Cole Young hits two-run seventh to lift Mariners past Pirates 3-2 > Seattle rookie delivers clutch blast in tight game, staking claim to Mariners' lineup spot Cole Young turned the tide in the seventh inning with a two-run home run, propelling the Seattle Mariners to a 3-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Mariners’ offense stalled for six innings against Pittsburgh starter Mitch Keller, managing just one run off his seven innings of work. Seattle’s lone tally came on a solo shot by Cal Raleigh in the fifth, while the Pirates countered with two runs in the second on an RBI double from Bryan Reynolds and a sacrifice fly from Oneil Cruz. Young, who entered the game as a late defensive replacement at shortstop, stepped to the plate in the seventh with the bases empty and the Mariners trailing 2-1. He worked a 2-2 count before driving Keller’s ninth pitch over the left-field wall, giving Seattle the lead for good. The blast was Young’s fourth home run of the young season and his second in as many games. Young's clutch performance not only secured the win but also highlighted his growing importance to the Mariners' lineup. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations is particularly notable for a rookie, as he has now driven in key runs in consecutive games. This consistency in critical moments is a rare trait for a young player and could make him a cornerstone of the Mariners' offense moving forward. Moreover, Young's success against a seasoned pitcher like Mitch Keller underscores his potential to handle major league pitching. Keller, known for his ability to keep batters off balance, was outdueled by Young in a pivotal at-bat. This suggests that Young is not just a flash in the pan but a player capable of making adjustments and thriving at the highest level. Pirates manager Derek Shelton acknowledged the Mariners’ resilience after the game, stating, “They found a way to manufacture runs when it mattered. That’s a tough lineup to keep quiet, especially with Young swinging the bat like that.” The Mariners’ ability to capitalize on late-game opportunities can be pivotal as they navigate a challenging schedule ahead. What’s next: The Mariners (12-10) head to Houston for a three-game set against the Astros starting Friday, while the Pirates (8-14) remain at home to face the Reds. ## Why this matters Young’s late heroics underscore the Mariners’ growing offensive punch and their ability to grind out wins in tight contests. With the team hovering near .500, performances like this from a 22-year-old rookie could define Seattle’s playoff push. The Mariners have now won three of their last four games, and Young’s emergence gives them another dynamic bat in the middle of the order. ## Frequently asked ### How many home runs has Cole Young hit this season? Cole Young has hit four home runs in the 2024 season, including his game-winner against the Pirates. ### Who scored the Mariners’ first run against the Pirates? Cal Raleigh hit a solo home run in the fifth inning to give the Mariners their first run of the game. ### What was Mitch Keller’s line in the loss to the Mariners? Mitch Keller pitched seven innings, allowing two runs on five hits while striking out six and walking two. ### How many games have the Mariners won in their last four? The Mariners have won three of their last four games, including the victory over the Pirates. ### When do the Mariners play the Astros next? The Mariners face the Astros in a three-game series starting Friday at Minute Maid Park in Houston. ## Sources & Citations - [Cole Young hits a two-run home run in the seventh to lift Mariners to a 3-2 victory over Pirates](https://www.newsbreak.com/world-baseball-network-320371775/4728923589543-cole-young-hits-a-two-run-home-run-in-the-seventh-to-lift-mariners-to-a-3-2-victory-over-pirates) — NewsData.io (2026-06-24) --- Cite: Cole Young hits two-run seventh to lift Mariners past Pirates 3-2. Sportopod, 2026-06-30. https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/cole-young-hits-a-two-run-home-run-in-the-seventh-to-lift-ma-f42ca15f