Pirates' Jake Mangum Makes Highlight Reel Play vs. Nationals

Mangum's throw to home plate saves a run in Pirates' close loss to Washington

Apr. 15, 2026 at 8:06pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the baseball play at home plate, with overlapping planes of color and form representing the catcher, runner, and outfielder in motion.Mangum's defensive gem keeps the Pirates within striking distance in a close game against the Nationals.Today in Pittsburgh

In the top of the eighth inning of the Pittsburgh Pirates' game against the Washington Nationals, outfielder Jake Mangum made a highlight-reel throw to home plate to get a Nationals runner out at the plate, preserving a one-run deficit for the Pirates. Though the Pirates ultimately lost 5-4, Mangum's defensive play was a bright spot in the close defeat.

Why it matters

The Pirates have been looking to improve their outfield defense, and Mangum's play shows he can be a valuable defensive asset off the bench. As a versatile outfielder, Mangum provides the Pirates with a strong glove and arm that can make a difference in close games.

The details

With the Nationals leading 5-4 in the top of the eighth, Nationals pinch-hitter José Tena singled to left field. Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams, who was on second base, tried to score from second on the hit. Mangum fielded the ball on one hop and made a strong, accurate throw to Pirates catcher Joey Bart, who applied the tag to get Abrams out at the plate. The play was upheld after a challenge from the Nationals manager.

  • The play occurred in the top of the eighth inning on April 14, 2026.
  • Mangum entered the game as a defensive replacement in left field in the eighth inning.

The players

Jake Mangum

A versatile outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates who made a highlight-reel throw to home plate to save a run in the team's 5-4 loss to the Washington Nationals.

Joey Bart

The Pittsburgh Pirates catcher who received Mangum's throw and applied the tag to get the Nationals runner out at home plate.

CJ Abrams

The Washington Nationals shortstop who was thrown out at home plate trying to score from second base on a single to left field.

Blake Butera

The Washington Nationals manager who challenged the call at home plate, but the out call was upheld.

José Tena

The Washington Nationals pinch-hitter who singled to left field, leading to the play at the plate.

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What they’re saying

“Tough one. It was kind of a tweener, if I could catch it or not. Instincts said to cut back on it and let it hop. Luckily, I was able to make a good throw, but an even better tag by Joey.”

— Jake Mangum, Pittsburgh Pirates Outfielder

What’s next

The Pirates will continue to rely on Mangum's defensive versatility as they look to make a push for the playoffs this season.

The takeaway

Mangum's highlight-reel play at the plate showcased his defensive abilities and the value he can provide the Pirates as a versatile outfielder off the bench. While the Pirates ultimately fell short, Mangum's play was a bright spot that demonstrated his potential to make an impact with his glove.