Cruz Extends Hitting Streak to 11 Games with Blast

Pirates center fielder continues hot series against Cubs at Wrigley Field

Apr. 12, 2026 at 6:52pm

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicting the powerful swing and motion of a baseball player hitting a home run, conveying the raw athleticism and excitement of Oneil Cruz's performance.Oneil Cruz's scorching hot start at the plate fuels the Pirates' hopes for a bounce-back season.Chicago Today

Oneil Cruz, the Pittsburgh Pirates' center fielder, extended his hitting streak to 11 games with a leadoff home run in Sunday's game against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. The 422-foot blast tied Cruz's career-long hitting streak, which he previously set in August 2024. Cruz has been on a tear in the series, collecting four hits, stealing three bases, drawing a walk, and scoring a run in Saturday's 4-3 win.

Why it matters

Cruz's hot streak is a positive sign for the Pirates, as the 27-year-old struggled at the plate in 2025. If he can maintain this level of production, it could be a boost for the team as they look to improve on their 2025 campaign.

The details

In Sunday's game, Cruz hit a 422-foot leadoff home run off Cubs pitcher Jameson Taillon, his fifth homer of the season. On Saturday, Cruz had four hits, stole three bases, drew a walk, and scored a run in the Pirates' 4-3 victory. He also singled, walked, and stole a base in the series opener on Friday.

  • On Sunday, April 12, 2026, Cruz hit a leadoff home run to extend his hitting streak to 11 games.
  • On Saturday, April 11, 2026, Cruz had a big game, collecting four hits, stealing three bases, drawing a walk, and scoring a run.
  • On Friday, April 10, 2026, Cruz singled, walked, and stole a base in the series opener.

The players

Oneil Cruz

The 27-year-old center fielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates, who is currently on a hot streak at the plate.

Jameson Taillon

The Chicago Cubs pitcher who gave up Cruz's leadoff home run on Sunday.

Don Kelly

The manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who praised Cruz's performance and attitude.

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What they’re saying

“He looks like he's going out there having fun, playing baseball and allowing his talent to play out.”

— Don Kelly, Manager, Pittsburgh Pirates

What’s next

The Pirates will look to continue their strong start to the season as they wrap up their series against the Cubs on Monday before heading to their next series.

The takeaway

Oneil Cruz's hot streak at the plate is a positive sign for the Pirates, as the young center fielder looks to build on his breakout 2024 season and help the team improve upon their 2025 campaign.