When it comes to describing a competitive matchup, there are many synonyms for the phrase "pitch against." One alternative is "match up," which highlights the head-to-head nature of the competition. Another option is "square off," which implies that the opponents are preparing to engage in battle. A more informal synonym is "face off," which is often used in sports reporting to describe a matchup between two teams or individuals. "Compete against" or "compete with" are also common options for describing a competitive situation. Ultimately, the choice of synonym will depend on the context and tone of the narrative.