The Pirates, who struggled most of the early 2017 season before the All-Star Break, bounced back and defeated first-place Milwaukee four times with scores of 4-2, 4-3, 3-2 and 4-2 during the week of July 17-21 at PNC Park. Pittsburgh has become a serious contender for a first-place finish in the five-team National League's Central Division, joining Milwaukee, Chicago and St. Louis. Rebuilding and last-place Cincinnati is practically out of the race.

Here are some of the pre-game photos before Wednesday night's matchup, including manager Craig Counsell and first baseman Eric Thames, both of Milwaukee. Also pictured is Pittsburgh's rising pitching star Jameson Taillon (warming up) and Pirates rookie Max Moroff (No. 62), who hit a walk-off single to help his club win 3-2 in the 10th inning.

Photos by Jamie H. Vaught