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Red Sox vs Pirates action arrives at PNC Park on Friday night, with Boston hoping to regain its rhythm and Pittsburgh looking to build on an emphatic win. The teams open a three-game series at 6:40 p.m. ET on August 14, 2026, in a matchup that features two young starting pitchers with plenty to prove.
Red Sox vs Pirates Preview: A Critical Pitching Duel
The Pittsburgh Pirates will hand the ball to Bubba Chandler, who enters the series opener after delivering one of the strongest performances of his season. On August 8, Chandler worked six scoreless innings against the New York Mets, allowing only three hits during Pittsburgh’s 9-0 victory.
That outing gave Chandler his second consecutive victory and offered an encouraging sign after a difficult start to the season. The right-hander carries a 5-8 record and a 4.26 ERA into Friday’s contest. Against a Boston lineup that has been one of baseball’s most productive groups during its recent surge, Chandler will need to command the strike zone and avoid allowing early traffic on the bases.
Jake Bennett Looks to Reignite Boston’s Rotation
Boston will counter with rookie Jake Bennett, who is scheduled to make his 14th career start. The 25-year-old pitcher from Tulsa, Oklahoma, debuted for the Red Sox on May 1 and has generally provided stability throughout his first major-league season.
Bennett enjoyed an impressive stretch in July, recording four consecutive victories. However, his recent results have been less consistent. He has lost two of his last three starts, including his most recent appearance against the Athletics. In that game, Bennett pitched 5.1 innings, surrendered five hits and allowed four earned runs in a 7-3 loss at Fenway Park.
Despite the recent setbacks, Bennett enters Friday with a 7-5 record and a 3.17 ERA. His ability to limit damage against Pittsburgh’s hitters could be vital, particularly if the Red Sox want to stop their current slide before it grows into a larger concern.
Boston Brings a Powerful Recent Record to Pittsburgh
The Red Sox have been among MLB’s hottest teams since the start of July. Boston is 27-9 since July 1, a remarkable run that pushed the club firmly into the playoff conversation. That momentum, however, has cooled sharply over the past week, with five of the team’s recent losses coming during that span.
Boston dropped two of three games to the Athletics at Fenway Park before struggling against the Toronto Blue Jays. The downturn has created an important response opportunity for Alex Cora’s club. A strong start in Pittsburgh would help settle concerns and restore confidence before the rest of the weekend series.
The Red Sox have also benefited from strong performances across their roster during their extended winning stretch. Now, the challenge is to rediscover that balance on the mound and at the plate. Bennett’s performance will be closely watched as Boston attempts to turn a difficult week around.
Pirates Seek More Energy After Rout of Miami
Pittsburgh enters the series with a boost after defeating the Miami Marlins 13-1 in its previous contest. The decisive result gave the Pirates a chance to reset and provided valuable confidence before facing one of the American League’s most dangerous teams.
For Pittsburgh, the key will be carrying that offensive energy into Friday’s opener. A productive start against Bennett could put pressure on Boston’s pitching staff and allow Chandler to work with an early lead. The Pirates will also need to capitalize on scoring opportunities, as Boston’s lineup can quickly change the game with one big inning.
The three-game set gives both teams a meaningful chance to shift their current direction. Boston wants to end its cold spell, while Pittsburgh hopes to use home-field advantage and a recent offensive explosion to create a winning weekend.
Game Information and Broadcast Details
- Matchup: Boston Red Sox vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
- Date: Friday, August 14, 2026
- First pitch: 6:40 p.m. ET
- Location: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Starting pitchers: Jake Bennett vs. Bubba Chandler
- Broadcast: KDKA AM/FM and Sportsnet Pittsburgh
With two developing starters taking the mound, Friday’s Red Sox vs Pirates matchup has the ingredients for a compelling opening game. Bennett will try to return Boston to winning form, while Chandler looks to follow his scoreless performance against New York with another confident outing.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Red Sox vs Pirates game?
The game is scheduled for Friday, August 14, 2026, with first pitch set for 6:40 p.m. ET.
Where will the Red Sox vs Pirates game be played?
The matchup will take place at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, home of the Pirates.
Who are the starting pitchers?
Jake Bennett is scheduled to start for Boston, while Bubba Chandler will take the mound for Pittsburgh.
What are Jake Bennett’s 2026 numbers?
Bennett enters the game with a 7-5 record and a 3.17 ERA after making 13 previous career starts.
How did Bubba Chandler perform in his last start?
Chandler pitched six scoreless innings and allowed three hits in Pittsburgh’s 9-0 win over the New York Mets on August 8.
