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Pirates vs Tigers action delivered a dramatic milestone chase on Friday, as Bryan Reynolds appeared in his 160th game of the 2026 season. Pittsburgh ultimately fell to Detroit, 8-7, at Comerica Park, but Reynolds moved within two appearances of becoming the first Pirates player in two decades to complete a full 162-game schedule.
Only two games remain on Pittsburgh’s calendar, leaving Reynolds within touching distance of a rare achievement. Jason Bay was the last Pirates player to appear in all 162 games, accomplishing the feat in 2005. Reynolds is now one of eight Major League players still on pace to play every game this season.
Pirates vs Tigers Highlights Reynolds’ Historic Chase
Reynolds has not started every game, but he has appeared in all of them. The eight-year veteran has started 155 contests and remained healthy throughout the season, a significant accomplishment after dealing with interruptions in recent years.
“Yeah, I think that’s pretty cool, being available,” Reynolds said during the week. “I haven’t started every game but getting into every game, I’ve wanted to do that in my career. I’ve had some hiccups the last few years, but hopefully this will be the year.”
The Pirates have carefully managed his workload while protecting the streak. Reynolds has occasionally been removed late as a defensive replacement, while on Thursday he entered as a pinch-hitter in the eighth inning. The goal has been to keep him involved without placing unnecessary physical demands on him.
Manager Don Kelly Praises Reynolds’ Consistency
Pirates manager Don Kelly said he and Reynolds have maintained an ongoing conversation about the milestone. With the finish line approaching, the team is staying in close contact with its star outfielder and making sure he is prepared for each remaining game.
“Bryan has been the model of stability and consistency,” Kelly said. “You talk about a fierce competitor, and he certainly is. I mean, 162 is hard to do. You’re talking about every single game.”
Kelly also described Reynolds’ approach as an important example for the organization. The manager said the way Reynolds plays and leads reflects the identity Pittsburgh wants to build as the club pushes toward postseason contention in 2027.
Reynolds Makes an Impact Despite Pirates’ Loss
During Friday’s Pirates vs Tigers matchup, Reynolds walked in the top of the eighth inning with two outs and Pittsburgh trailing by six runs. His plate appearance helped spark a five-run rally, which was capped by Rafael Flores Jr.’s three-run homer.
The comeback attempt fell short, but the late surge showed the Pirates’ resilience. Detroit held on for the 8-7 victory in the opening game of the final three-game series of the season.
Reynolds’ individual campaign has included both highs and lows, yet his overall production remains impressive. He leads the Major Leagues with 40 doubles and has posted a .364 on-base percentage, his best mark since 2021, when he reached base at a .390 clip.
He has also benefited from improved offensive support. The additions of Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn have given Pittsburgh more production around him, contributing to a more patient approach at the plate. Reynolds has drawn 88 walks this season after totaling 57 or fewer in each of the previous four years.
A Critical Finish for the Pittsburgh Pirates
Reynolds previously came close to a full-season appearance record. He played in 159 games in 2021, followed by 156 games in 2024 and 154 in 2025. Reaching 160 games on Friday established a new career high and brought him closer than ever to the historic mark.
“It’s just being available, just playing through the little kinks that you might get through the season,” Reynolds said. “I mean, in college I played every game. I guess that’s kind of always how I’ve been.”
The Pirates have shown encouraging signs late in the season, posting a strong September record while operating close to full strength. Reynolds said the team’s recent performance has provided confidence that Pittsburgh can take meaningful steps forward, even though it did not reach its ultimate goal this year.
For now, the focus is simple: two more games and two more opportunities. If Reynolds appears in both, he will join an exclusive group of players to complete a 162-game season while giving the Pirates a memorable individual achievement to carry into the offseason.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the result of the Pirates vs Tigers game?
The Detroit Tigers defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates, 8-7, at Comerica Park on Friday.
How many games has Bryan Reynolds played in 2026?
Reynolds has appeared in 160 games with two games remaining on Pittsburgh’s schedule.
Who was the last Pirates player to play all 162 games?
Jason Bay was the last Pirates player to appear in all 162 games, doing so in 2005.
What are Bryan Reynolds’ key statistics this season?
Reynolds leads the Majors with 40 doubles and has recorded a .364 on-base percentage along with 88 walks.
