Cruz stays hot in Chicago, turns hit streak to 11 with booming leadoff blast
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CHICAGO -- Oneil Cruz may not want to get on the plane to leave Chicago.
The Pirates' center fielder had a huge series against the Cubs at Wrigley Field, including a leadoff home run to begin Sunday's game, a game that ended in a 7-6 Pittsburgh loss. The 422-foot blast extended his hitting streak to 11 games, which ties his career high (set Aug. 20-31, 2024).
Cruz collected four hits, stole three bases, drew a walk and scored a run in Saturday's 4-3 win. In the series opener on Friday, he singled, walked and stole a base.
Cruz came into 2026 looking to have a big season after struggling (.200/.298/.676) in 2025.
The results have been there so far for the 27-year-old, as his blast off Jameson Taillon on Sunday was his fifth of the season. His career high in home runs (21) came in 2024.
"He looks like he's going out there having fun, playing baseball and allowing his talent to play out," manager Don Kelly said after Saturday's game.