Mets Shine During Opening Day Against Pirates
In an electrifying first inning on Thursday, the Mets exhibited an offensive prowess that was likely the stuff of dreams for their fans, contrasting sharply with the Pirates’ nightmarish defensive mistakes.
Notably, Paul Skeens, the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, found himself exiting the mound prematurely at a buzzing Citi Field, unable to pitch a full inning.
By the time the dust settled, the Mets had secured five runs off four hits, one hit batter, two walks, and some glaring misplays from center fielder O’Neal Crews. The game shifted quickly as the Mets took a 5-2 lead, leaving them no longer facing what could be considered one of the top pitchers in the league.
Looking at the Mets, it’s clear they’ve made some changes during the offseason to bolster their lineup, aiming for a combination of strength and creativity in their offense. And boy, did it show in that one frame.
After Francisco Lindor managed to draw a walk on a full count, Juan Soto followed up with a solid single to right-center.
Then there was Bo Bichette, who, known for his consistent contact, did his part well, getting the job done with a sacrifice fly on an 0-2 pitch.
Jorge Polanco also chipped in with a swinging bunt, and Luis Robert Jr., typically not the most persistent hitter with the White Sox, fouled off five pitches in a lengthy at-bat. He ultimately earned a walk, loading the bases.
The Pirates’ defensive struggles were palpable.
Brett Batty sent a deep drive toward center field, and while Cruz took a few steps in, it didn’t matter—it sailed over his head for a bases-loaded triple.
Just a pitch later, Marcus Semien sent a ball that looked like a sacrifice fly, but Cruz, again caught out, failed to track it in the sunlight. Instead, it landed safely beside him, resulting in an RBI double.
After Carson Benge struck out in his first major league at-bat, Skeens managed to get Francisco Alvarez out with a sinker, but after throwing 37 pitches, it was the shortest appearance of his career. Pittsburgh manager Don Kelly had to make a tough decision to pull him from the game.
