Pedro Pages hit a double to bring home pinch runner Michael Siani, and then scored on Alec Burleson’s single in the 10th inning, helping the St. Louis Cardinals narrowly defeat the Pittsburgh Pirates 3-2 on Thursday.

St. Louis won two out of three games against their NL Central rivals, marking their 12th series finale victory in the last 13 opportunities. This strong finish is part of their impressive 30-17 record since May 12, which ranks third best in the majors during that period.

“It’s crucial,” said St. Louis manager Oliver Marmol. “It boosts morale as we head to the next city. It’s uplifting in every way.”

Burleson and Dylan Carlson each contributed two hits for St. Louis. John King (3-1) secured the win by retiring Andrew McCutchen with the tying run on second base in the 10th inning. The Cardinals have improved to 16-12 in one-run games this season, a significant improvement from their 17-26 record in similar close contests last year.

St. Louis starter Andre Pallante pitched a career-best seven innings, providing relief for the Cardinals’ bullpen. Pallante struck out five batters and issued just one walk, with his only stumble occurring when Bryan Reynolds hit his 14th home run of the season for Pittsburgh in the fourth inning.

“My confidence has been building in recent outings, and I feel good about my pitches and their effectiveness,” Pallante commented.

Reynolds’ home run was a highlight for the Pirates, who managed only seven hits in total. In the bottom of the 10th inning, Nick Gonzales hit an unconventional sacrifice fly to left-center field, where St. Louis left fielder Brendan Donovan made the catch. However, Donovan’s hesitation allowed pinch runner Michael A. Taylor to score from second base.