BRADENTON, Fl. (PTTP) — The Pirates are wrapping up their time at Lecom Park, with less than 10 games to play in the Spring Training season. The team holds the 14 standing out of 15 in the Grapefruit League, ahead of only the Miami Marlins. With a –32 run differential (as of March 24); many fans are preparing themselves for yet another lackluster season.
A key piece missing from the Pirates’ puzzle is none other than right-handed pitcher and Pittsburgh native, David Bednar, who represented Team USA at the World Baseball Classic. Stepping up to the mound in his place is Mitch Keller, whose 2022 season earned run average (ERA) is 3.91. After a rough start to his MLB career, Keller is excited to play on Opening Day against the Cincinnati Reds.
Pirates fans are excited to see young guns Oneil Cruz and Jack Suwinski back on the field. Cruz, in his third MLB season, hopes to continue to make waves in the infield, and Suwinski continues to compete for the starting right field position, mainly against Travis Swaggerty.
PNC Park might fill up again this season, as Andrew McCutchen has returned to his roots in the Pirates team. In his time away from Pittsburgh, he played for 4 other teams and suffered season-ending ACL and meniscus injuries. Now with a clean bill of health, McCutchen will add leadership, experience, and personality to the young team.
The Pirates’ Opening Day at PNC Park is April 7, when they will face the Chicago White Sox. This starts a six-game homestand, as the team will play the White Sox twice after Opening Day and will then play the Houston Astros in a three-game series.