Pirates' Oneil Cruz joins elite Pittsburgh baseball history

Cruz's accomplishment puts him in rare company with Pirates legend Honus Wagner.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:09pm

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A visually striking, cubist-inspired illustration depicting the dynamic action and energy of Oneil Cruz's historic baseball game through a fractured, geometric composition of bold team colors and shapes.Oneil Cruz's record-tying performance puts him in elite company with Pirates legend Honus Wagner.Today in Pittsburgh

Oneil Cruz of the Pittsburgh Pirates has joined an exclusive club of just two players in the team's history to achieve a remarkable feat last accomplished by Hall of Famer Honus Wagner in 1909. Cruz's historic performance came in a game against the Chicago Cubs on Saturday.

Why it matters

Oneil Cruz is one of the Pirates' most promising young stars, and his accomplishment puts him in the same rarefied air as one of the greatest players in franchise history, Honus Wagner. This achievement highlights Cruz's immense talent and potential to follow in the footsteps of Pittsburgh baseball legends.

The details

On Saturday, Oneil Cruz became just the second player in Pirates history, after Honus Wagner in 1909, to record at least five hits, two home runs, and six RBIs in a single game. Cruz's historic performance helped lead the Pirates to victory over the Chicago Cubs.

  • Oneil Cruz achieved this feat on Saturday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Oneil Cruz

A rising star outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Honus Wagner

A Hall of Fame shortstop who played for the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1897 to 1917 and is considered one of the greatest players in franchise history.

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What they’re saying

“Oneil Cruz is cementing his place as one of the most exciting young players in baseball. To join Honus Wagner in the Pirates' record books is an incredible accomplishment.”

— Bob Nutting, Pittsburgh Pirates Owner

What’s next

Cruz and the Pirates will look to build on this historic performance as they continue their season and push for a playoff berth.

The takeaway

Oneil Cruz's record-tying game is a testament to his immense talent and potential, and it cements his status as one of the brightest young stars in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization.