Dylan Crews Powers Nationals Past Pirates 6-5 With Home Run, James Wood’s Game-Saving Throw – September 12, 2025 Recap

Friday, September 12th, 2025

Nationals Edge Pirates 6-5 in Thrilling Finish

The Washington Nationals triumphed over the Pittsburgh Pirates in a close 6-5 MLB matchup on Friday night. Dylan Crews powered the Nationals’ offense with a pivotal two-run homer, while James Wood made a game-saving defensive play in the ninth inning to secure the victory.

Crews’ Home Run Sparks Nationals Comeback

Dylan Crews delivered a crucial two-run home run in the seventh inning, marking his ninth homer of the season and providing the Nationals their first lead of the night. Crews also made a notable leaping catch in right field in the fourth inning to rob Ji Hwan Bae of a hit, showcasing his impact both at the plate and in the field.

Big Seventh Inning Fuels Washington

The Nationals exploded for four runs in the seventh inning, with Josh Bell contributing a two-run double to extend the lead. Bell has now driven in 15 runs since September 7, underscoring his importance to the Nationals’ lineup.

James Wood Saves the Game in the Ninth

In a dramatic ninth inning, the Pirates threatened to tie the game. Nick Gonzales doubled, followed by a Joey Bart RBI single with two runners on base. James Wood responded with a bullet 93 mph throw from the outfield, cutting down Alexander Canario at home to preserve the Nationals’ slim 6-5 lead. Wood also scored earlier on a wild pitch and struck out twice, becoming the first player this season to reach 200 strikeouts.

Other Notable Performances

Brady House hit his fourth home run of the season for the Nationals in the sixth inning. For the Pirates, Spencer Horwitz launched a two-run homer in the fifth, helping keep Pittsburgh in the game. Closer Jose A. Ferrer allowed two earned runs in the ninth but earned his ninth save of the year, marking the first run he’s allowed in 15 appearances.

Pitching Decisions

P.J. Poulin (2-1) picked up the win for Washington, while Kyle Nicolas (1-2) was credited with the loss for Pittsburgh.

Key Stats

Josh Bell has driven in 15 runs since September 7, highlighting his recent hot streak at the plate for Washington.

Up Next

The series continues as the Nationals send left-hander Andrew Alvarez (1-0, 1.86 ERA) to the mound against Pirates right-hander Bubba Chandler (2-1, 7.36 ERA) on Saturday.

In summary

The Washington Nationals secured a narrow 6-5 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates with key performances from Dylan Crews, James Wood, and Josh Bell. Crews' decisive home run and Wood's defensive heroics highlighted an action-packed game. This victory provides momentum for the Nationals as they prepare for the next game in the series. Fans can anticipate another exciting matchup as the Nationals and Pirates face off again, with pitching matchups set to add to the intrigue.

MLB Schedules

Today's MLB Games

There are no baseball games today.

Tomorrow's MLB Games

There are no baseball games tomorrow.

Yesterday's MLB Games

There were no baseball games yesterday.