#pittsburgh_pirates

Padres vs Pirates Prediction, Pick, MLB Odds for Monday, April 6 The Pittsburgh Pirates host the San Diego Padres on April 6, 2026, in a matchup set for 6:40 p.m. EDT at PNC Park. The game will be broadcast on SportsNet PT, with the Pirates favored at -135 on the moneyline and -1.5 on the run line. The Padres are listed at +111 on the moneyline and +1.5 on the run line, with the total set at 8.5 runs. The Pirates are entering the game with a strong 6-3 record, while the Padres aim to rebound from a 4-5 start to the season. Bubba Chandler will start for Pittsburgh in his second appearance of the year, following an impressive debut where he pitched 4 1/3 scoreless innings against the Reds, allowing no hits or runs and posting a 0.00 ERA. The right-hander has yet to allow a run in his first two starts, with a 0.00 ERA and 12 strikeouts in 12 innings. San Diego will counter with German Marquez, who is coming off a rough first start. The right-hander allowed four earned runs on eight hits over three innings against the Giants, raising his ERA to 12.00. Opponents have hit .471 against him through his first start, and Marquez is expected to face a tough test against the Pirates’ lineup. Both teams feature key bats capable of shifting the game, including Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado for the Padres. The Pirates’ lineup includes sluggers like Josh Bell and Ke’Bryan Hayes, who have shown power potential. The game’s outcome could hinge on how each team’s starting pitcher performs, as well as the effectiveness of their bullpen. The "Revenge Spot Favorites" system in MLB moneyline betting highlights teams that recently lost to the same opponent by a narrow margin. This system favors teams with winning records, solid average margins of victory, and moderate favorability in the market.#san_diego_padres #pittsburgh_pirates #pnc_park #bubba_chandler #german_marquez

Padres' offense waking up just in time as torrid Pirates await The San Diego Padres are showing signs of improvement after a slow start to the 2026 season as they prepare to face the Pittsburgh Pirates in a crucial three-game series. The Padres, who had struggled with an anemic offense entering the weekend, managed to secure their first series win of the year by defeating the Boston Red Sox in two consecutive games, including an 8-6 victory on Sunday. This marked a significant turnaround for the team, which had previously posted a major-league-worst .190 batting average and .553 OPS. The offensive resurgence was led by key players such as Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts, and Jackson Merrill, who combined for eight of the Padres' 12 hits in the Sunday game. Machado hit his first home run of the season, helping the Padres score the most runs they had in a game that year. This was only the second time in nine games that San Diego managed to score more than three runs, signaling a potential turning point in their season. The Padres' offensive surge will be tested on Monday as they take on the Pirates, who have been dominant in recent weeks. The Pirates, riding a five-game winning streak, have shown explosive power at the plate, fueled by offseason acquisitions like Brandon Lowe and Ryan O'Hearn, as well as the strong performance of Oneil Cruz. The team has already hit 12 home runs in nine games, a stark contrast to their previous season. The Pirates' offensive firepower is further bolstered by the contributions of players like Nick Yorke, who stepped in after infielder Jared Triolo was placed on the 10-day injured list. Yorke delivered a walk-off hit in Saturday's game against the Orioles and added another hit on Sunday.#manny_machado #san_diego_padres #pittsburgh_pirates #jackson_merrill #xander_bogaerts

Sheetz to Donate $100 to Pittsburgh Food Bank for Each Pirates Home Run Sheetz announced on Thursday that it will donate $100 to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank for every home run hit by the Pittsburgh Pirates during the 2024 season. The initiative, named “Home Runz for Hunger,” was revealed one day before the team’s home opener at PNC Park, marking a new partnership between the convenience store chain and the local food bank. Fans attending Friday’s game will have the opportunity to view a newly installed Sheetz home run board in the right field foul area, which will track the team’s home run count in real time throughout the season. The donation plan is designed to provide an additional 300 meals to individuals and families in need for each home run. Sheetz emphasized that this initiative builds on its long-standing collaboration with the food bank through its “Made-to-Share” program, which has already contributed over 950,000 pounds of food to the organization over the past decade. The company’s commitment to supporting the community extends beyond the baseball season, with the food bank benefiting from Sheetz’s ongoing efforts to address food insecurity in the region. The home run board, a visible feature at PNC Park, will serve as both a fan attraction and a tangible representation of the partnership’s impact. Sheetz’s decision to tie its donation to the Pirates’ performance highlights the growing trend of corporate sponsorships in sports that align with social responsibility goals. The initiative also underscores the role of local businesses in addressing community needs, particularly in areas where economic challenges persist.#pittsburgh_pirates #sheetz #greater_pittsburgh_community_food_bank #pnc_park #made_to_share

Mike Burrows: Rising Star in Houston's Rotation The 2025 season marks a pivotal moment for Mike Burrows, a pitcher whose journey from a standout high school prospect to a potential key contributor for the Houston Astros has been marked by both challenges and flashes of brilliance. Drafted in the 11th round by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2018 for a $500,000 signing bonus, Burrows has navigated a winding path through the minor leagues, overcoming setbacks and refining his skills to position himself as a promising addition to Houston’s rotation. Burrows’ early career was defined by inconsistency. In his first full season with the Pirates in 2019, he posted a 4.33 ERA and 1.466 WHIP, struggling with control and allowing over a hit per inning. However, a breakout 2021 season—where he slashed his ERA to 2.76 and improved his strikeout rate to 12.1 K/9—hinted at his potential. The following year, a mix of success and struggle saw him post a 4.01 ERA across the minors, though his 10.6 K/9 rate and 3.0 BB/9 rate showcased his ability to dominate hitters when on track. A major setback came in 2023, when Burrows underwent Tommy John surgery after just two starts. His return in 2024 was uneven, with a 5.26 ERA and 1.539 WHIP across three levels of the minors, suggesting he was still finding his rhythm. Yet, his 2025 season with the Pirates turned things around. Starting the year in the minors, Burrows posted a 2.51 ERA and 1.052 WHIP, striking out 11.4 K/9 while walking just 3.1 BB/9. His performance earned him a call-up to the majors in late May, where he continued to impress with a 3.94 ERA and 1.240 WHIP over 23 games (19 starts). The Pirates’ decision to trade Burrows to Houston in a three-team deal with the Rays in the offseason underscores his value.#pittsburgh_pirates #tommy_john_surgery #houston_astros #mike_burrows #framber_valdez

Randal Grichuk's Role with the Yankees: A Focus on Left-Handed Pitching The New York Yankees have signed Randal Grichuk with the primary goal of leveraging his ability to hit left-handed pitching. At 34 years old, Grichuk has been slow to join spring training, arriving only recently as the team prepares for the regular season. With just over two weeks remaining until the season starts, the Yankees are prioritizing maximizing his plate appearances to build his readiness for the upcoming games. Manager Aaron Boone emphasized the urgency of getting Grichuk into game action, noting that the team is deep into spring training and cannot afford to wait for a left-handed starter to face him. This strategy was evident when Grichuk was included in the lineup for Monday night’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, despite the opposing pitcher being a right-hander. Boone explained that the team’s focus is on providing Grichuk with as many opportunities as possible to accumulate innings and repetitions, even if it means facing right-handed pitchers early in his return. Grichuk is not scheduled to play in Tuesday’s day game against the Philadelphia Phillies in Clearwater, Florida, further highlighting the team’s emphasis on time and at-bats. Boone expressed confidence that Grichuk’s experience will be valuable, particularly in the outfield, where he has a strong history of performance. He noted that Grichuk’s ability to handle left-handed pitching is a key asset, and the team is working to support him in the outfield with adjustments to improve his range and positioning. The Yankees’ decision to include Grichuk in the Opening Day roster has also raised questions about the status of Jasson Domínguez, the switch-hitting outfielder who has struggled against left-handed pitching from the right side.#new_york_yankees #philadelphia_phillies #pittsburgh_pirates #aaron_boone #randal_grichuk

New York Mets Star Makes Injury Admission Ahead of Opening Day The New York Mets are preparing for the 2026 season with high hopes after a disappointing finish to the previous campaign. The team made significant roster changes, spending nearly $250 million in the offseason and acquiring pitcher Freddy Peralta in a blockbuster trade to strengthen the rotation. With these upgrades, the Mets are expected to compete strongly in the National League East division. However, concerns about the health of shortstop Francisco Lindor persist. Lindor, a five-time All-Star, underwent hand surgery in mid-February to address a broken hamate bone. While he has participated in multiple spring training games, he has not yet reached full recovery. In an interview with Bleacher Report, Lindor acknowledged he is not 100% ready for the season. “Opening Day is still the plan,” he said, adding that he will not be at his peak but remains committed to playing. “Nobody is 100 percent when they depend on their body day in and day out.” Lindor’s spring training performance reflected his cautious approach. He recorded 19 at-bats, with three hits (.158 batting average), and demonstrated confidence in the field, posting a perfect 10 fielding chances, seven assists, and three putouts across five appearances. Despite these efforts, his limited playing time has raised questions about his readiness for the season. Lindor’s health is critical to the Mets’ success in 2026. ESPN’s Jeff Passan highlighted his importance, stating that the team’s playoff chances largely depend on his performance. Lindor’s 6.3 WAR in 2025 ranked among the top three shortstops in the National League, and he led the league in plate appearances and at-bats.#bleacher_report #new_york_mets #francisco_lindor #pittsburgh_pirates #freddy_peralta

Mets' Francisco Lindor: Ready to Roll for Opener Francisco Lindor is set to start at shortstop and bat leadoff in the New York Mets’ Opening Day game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday. The shortstop, who underwent hamate bone surgery in late January, has been cleared to play after participating in five Grapefruit League games. Despite the potential for delayed power output following such a procedure, fantasy baseball managers are advised to include Lindor in their lineups for the opener. Lindor’s return to action comes just six weeks after his surgery, a timeline that has raised questions about his readiness. However, the Mets have confirmed his participation in the game, indicating that he has progressed sufficiently through recovery protocols. While his power numbers may take time to fully rebound, his defensive skills and overall impact at the plate make him a valuable asset for fantasy teams. The Mets’ decision to activate Lindor for the opener reflects confidence in his ability to contribute immediately. His presence at shortstop will bolster the team’s infield defense, and his leadoff batting role positions him to set the tone for the offense. Lindor’s return also provides a psychological boost to the team, as his leadership and experience can elevate the performance of his teammates. Fantasy analysts have noted that Lindor’s recovery trajectory is a key factor in his readiness. While some players may experience a temporary dip in power after hand surgery, Lindor’s ability to adapt and perform in the field remains intact. His participation in Grapefruit League games has allowed him to regain his rhythm, and the Mets’ medical staff has deemed him fit to compete at the major league level.#new_york_mets #francisco_lindor #pittsburgh_pirates #grapefruit_league #opening_day_game

Mets' Brett Baty Earns Opening Day Start as Designated Hitter Brett Baty has been named the New York Mets’ Opening Day starter, set to play as the designated hitter and bat sixth in the lineup during Thursday’s season opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The decision was announced as part of the team’s preparations for the 2026 season, with Baty facing right-handed pitcher Paul Skenes in the first game. His selection over right-handed-hitting Mark Vientos highlights the Mets’ strategy to leverage Baty’s left-handed power against right-handed starters. Baty, a versatile utility player, is expected to see significant playing time in multiple positions throughout the season. While his Opening Day role is at designated hitter, he is also likely to start at first base when facing right-handed pitching. However, the team has opted to give rookie Jorge Polanco his first career start at first base in the opener, signaling a potential shift in the lineup’s dynamics. The Mets’ decision to prioritize Baty for the Opening Day start reflects his role as a key offensive contributor. His ability to hit left-handed pitching effectively makes him a valuable asset in matchups against right-handed starters, a common scenario in the National League. Baty’s inclusion in the lineup also underscores the team’s focus on maximizing his batting skills while managing the workload of other players. Beyond the Opening Day lineup, the Mets have been monitoring Baty’s progress as he continues to develop his game. Recent updates indicate he is recovering from a minor hamstring injury sustained during spring training, which has limited his playing time in recent weeks. Despite the setback, his presence in the Opening Day lineup suggests the team remains confident in his readiness to contribute at the start of the season.#new_york_mets #paul_skenes #pittsburgh_pirates #mark_vientos #brett_baty

The New York Mets are unlikely to give Mark Vientos much playing time in the early weeks of the 2026 season, as the team’s schedule and roster adjustments position him as a bench player heading into the campaign. Vientos, the Mets’ third baseman, faces a critical season after his performance declined significantly in 2025, leaving his role on the team uncertain. With the roster reshaped, he is not assured of a prominent role, especially as the team navigates a challenging early schedule. The Mets’ first series of the season will feature the Pittsburgh Pirates, whose starting rotation includes right-handed pitchers Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller. The Pirates’ entire starting five consists of right-handed hurlers, which means Vientos is unlikely to see significant action in the third game of the series unless a late-game pinch-hitting opportunity arises. This scheduling quirk could keep him sidelined for several games, limiting his chances to contribute early in the season. Following the Pirates series, the Mets will travel to St. Louis to face the Cardinals, whose back-end starters, Andre Pallante and Kyle Leahy, are also right-handed. This further extends Vientos’ bench time, as the team may not need him until the sixth game of the season. At that point, Opening Day starter Matthew Liberatore will be on the mound, potentially giving Vientos a chance to enter the lineup. However, the timing of his opportunities remains uncertain, as the Mets’ schedule and pitching staff composition may continue to restrict his playing time in the opening weeks. Vientos’ situation highlights the challenges of adapting to a restructured roster and the impact of scheduling decisions on a player’s role.#new_york_mets #paul_skenes #pittsburgh_pirates #mark_vientos #mitch_keller

Mets' Mark Vientos: Absent from Opening Day Lineup Mark Vientos will not be part of the New York Mets’ Opening Day lineup for Thursday’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The decision comes as the team plans to start right-hander Paul Skenes on the mound for the Pirates. In the batting order, first baseman Jorge Polanco and left-handed-hitting designated hitter Brett Baty have been named to the starting lineup. Vientos, a right-handed hitter, is expected to remain on the bench against right-handed pitchers, as the Mets aim to leverage platoon advantages. However, the team has indicated that Vientos may not be a regular option in such scenarios due to his limited effectiveness against right-handed pitching. The absence of Vientos from the Opening Day lineup highlights the Mets’ strategic approach to balancing their roster. While Polanco provides stability at first base, Baty’s left-handed bat adds an element of versatility against right-handed starters. Vientos’ potential role as a platoon bat remains uncertain, with the team likely monitoring his performance during spring training before making long-term decisions. The decision to bench him for the opener underscores the importance of matchups in shaping the initial lineup. Vientos’ absence also reflects the broader context of the Mets’ roster management, as they continue to evaluate player roles and optimize their offensive strategy. The team’s focus on platoon advantages suggests a calculated effort to maximize the strengths of their hitters while mitigating weaknesses. This approach aligns with the competitive nature of Major League Baseball, where small adjustments can have significant impacts on game outcomes.#new_york_mets #paul_skenes #pittsburgh_pirates #mark_vientos #jorge_polanco

Mets, Tommy Pham Agree To Minor League Deal The New York Mets and veteran outfielder Tommy Pham have reached an agreement on a minor league contract, according to ESPN’s Jorge Castillo. The deal, which marks Pham’s second stint with the team, includes a prorated $2.25 million bonus if he is selected for the major league roster and an opt-out clause set for April 25, as reported by USA Today’s Bob Nightengale. Pham could also earn an additional $850,000 in performance-based incentives, Castillo noted. Pham, 38, spent the 2025 season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, posting a slightly below-average .245/.330/.370 batting line (95 wRC+). However, his second-half performance was more encouraging, as he hit .278/.363/.468 with 10 home runs, 13 doubles, a triple, an 11.7% walk rate, and a 17.2% strikeout rate over his final 273 plate appearances. His strong finish in June helped offset a slow start to the season. Pham previously joined the Mets in 2023, signing a one-year free-agent deal. He contributed 264 plate appearances with the team, hitting .268/.348/.472 before being traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks in a midseason deal. The swap sent teenage infielder Jeremy Rodriguez to the Mets. Now returning to New York, Pham aims to work his way up through Triple-A in hopes of securing a spot on the big league roster. The Mets’ Opening Day roster features top prospect Carson Benge as their starting right fielder, but the club is preparing for potential setbacks. Mike Tauchman, a key bench option, is sidelined due to a meniscus tear requiring surgery at the end of spring training. Pham provides the Mets with a veteran alternative if Benge struggles against major league pitching early in the season. His right-handed bat also complements Benge’s left-handed approach, as Pham has a career .261/.368/.#new_york_mets #pittsburgh_pirates #carson_benge #tommy_pham #arizona_diamondbacks

Mets sign long-time veteran to deal on Opening Day The Major League Baseball season is finally here, and the New York Mets begin their quest for a World Series title in 2026 against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The matchup kicks off with Freddy Peralta and the Mets facing Paul Skenes and the Pirates. With the new-look Mets roster, there is plenty of optimism for this season, even against a pitcher as dominant as Skenes. Before their season opener, the Mets are set to sign former Pirates outfielder and longtime MLB veteran Tommy Pham to a free agent contract, according to ESPN’s Jorge Castillo. The deal, a minor-league agreement, marks Pham’s return to the Mets after a brief stint with the team in 2023. Pham, 38, has spent the last 12 years in the majors since his 2014 debut with the St. Louis Cardinals. Last season, he played 120 games for the Pirates, posting a 1.0 bWAR, .245 batting average, and .700 OPS. His previous time with the Mets in 2023 saw him record an .820 OPS in 79 games. Now back with the Mets, Pham will work out in the minor leagues as he awaits a chance to return to the majors. With Luis Robert Jr., Carson Benge, and Juan Soto forming the outfield, securing a roster spot would require an injury or a significant slump from Benge or Robert. However, Pham remains a valuable bench option or potential spot starter if needed. The Mets’ decision to sign Pham adds depth to their roster as they aim to build on their recent improvements. His experience and track record could provide a reliable presence in the lineup, especially during high-stakes games. Meanwhile, other developments across MLB include Hunter Greene’s injury setback with the Reds, Roki Sasaki’s return to the Dodgers’ rotation, and updates on several other teams’ rosters.#new_york_mets #pittsburgh_pirates #mlb_season_2026 #tommy_pham #jorge_castillo

Pittsburgh Pirates 2026 Viewing Guide: TV, Streaming, and Radio Options Following the Pittsburgh Pirates’ 162-game season in 2026 requires a flexible approach to viewing, as the team’s broadcast schedule spans regional, national, and streaming platforms. Fans without cable or those seeking out-of-market access must navigate multiple services to ensure they don’t miss any games. The Pirates’ regional network, SportsNet Pittsburgh (SNP), will air the majority of their games, but national broadcasts and exclusive streaming deals will also play a role in the schedule. For local viewers, SportsNet Pittsburgh remains the primary channel for Pirates games, broadcasting matches across Western Pennsylvania, parts of Ohio, and West Virginia. These broadcasts include pregame and postgame coverage, enhancing the fan experience. However, some games will be televised nationally on networks like ESPN, FOX, FS1, MLB Network, or TBS, depending on exclusivity agreements. These national broadcasts may not be available on SNP, so checking the weekly schedule is essential to avoid missing key matchups. Streaming options for cord-cutters include SNP 360, a subscription service that provides live access to SportsNet Pittsburgh’s regional games. Priced at $21.99 monthly or $99.99 for six months, the service also includes coverage of Penguins games. The SNP 360 app is available on multiple devices, including mobile, desktop, Apple TV, and Fire TV. For a broader selection of national broadcasts, platforms like Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV Stream offer cable-like bundles without long-term contracts. These services often include MLB Network and regional sports networks, making them ideal for fans who want a centralized streaming solution. Out-of-market viewers can access all games through MLB.TV, which costs $29.#pittsburgh_pirates #mlb_network #sportsnet_pittsburgh #mlb_tv #snp_360

Pittsburgh Pirates' 2026 MLB Season Schedule The Pittsburgh Pirates are set to begin their 2026 Major League Baseball season with a renewed focus on making their first playoff appearance in over a decade. The team’s aggressive offseason moves, which included signing free agents Ryan O’Hearn and Marcell Ozuna and acquiring players like Brandon Lowe and Jhostynxon Garcia, aim to elevate their standing in the National League Central and secure a postseason berth. The season opens on the road with a three-game series against the New York Mets on Thursday, March 3, followed by a three-game set at the Cincinnati Reds from March 30 to April 1. The Pirates’ first home series of the year will take place at PNC Park from April 3 to 5, featuring a three-game matchup against the Baltimore Orioles. The team then hosts the San Diego Padres for a three-game series from April 6 to 8, with additional home games against the Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers throughout the month. April’s schedule also includes a seven-game home stand, marking a significant stretch for the Pirates to build momentum. In May, the team will welcome the Philadelphia Phillies for a three-game home series from May 15 to 17. The month concludes with a road trip to Canada, where the Pirates face the 2025 American League champions, the Toronto Blue Jays, in a three-game series from May 22 to 24. June brings a high-profile matchup as the Pirates host the 2025 World Series-winning Los Angeles Dodgers from June 9 to 11. The team also has a three-game home series against the Seattle Mariners from June 23 to 25. Before the All-Star Break, the Pirates will host the Atlanta Braves and Milwaukee Brewers in a series of six home games.#pittsburgh_pirates #brandon_lowe #ryan_ohearn #marcell_ozuna #jhostynxon_garcia

Opening Day for NY Mets Against Pittsburgh Pirates at Citi Field The New York Mets kicked off their 2026 season on Thursday with a matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Citi Field. The game, set for 1:15 p.m., marks the beginning of a new chapter for the team after a challenging 2025 season. The Mets, who finished with the best record in baseball earlier in the year, struggled down the stretch and missed the playoffs entirely. Team owner Steve Cohen and President of Baseball Operations David Stearns spent the offseason reshaping the roster, making significant changes to the lineup. Notable departures include fan favorites Edwin Diaz, Pete Alonso, and Brandon Nimmo. In contrast, the team has welcomed several new players, including pitcher Freddy Peralta, who was acquired in a trade. Peralta, regarded as one of the league’s top starting pitchers, will be the centerpiece of the Mets’ rotation. The lineup also features additions such as infielders Bo Bichette, Jorge Polanco, and Marcus Semien, who bring fresh energy and experience to the squad. Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed enthusiasm about the team’s readiness for the season, stating his excitement to see the players take the field. Despite the Mets’ strong historical performance on opening days, this year’s game presents a formidable challenge. They will face the reigning Cy Young Award winner, Paul Skenes, in a matchup that could set the tone for the season. The team’s opening day record remains the best in Major League Baseball, but the stakes are high as they aim to build on their offseason improvements. The game’s significance extends beyond the field, as it represents a fresh start for a team looking to rebound from a disappointing finish.#new_york_mets #pittsburgh_pirates #citi_field #steve_cohen #david_stearns

Pirates and Mets Set for 2026 Opening Day Showdown After a disappointing 2025 season, both the New York Mets and Pittsburgh Pirates are eager to turn things around in 2026. The Mets, who saw their promising start to the season unravel in the second half and finished just one game short of the playoffs, aim to reclaim the NL East after more than a decade of sharing the division with the Nationals, Braves, and Phillies. The Pirates, meanwhile, hope to break free from last-place struggles in the National League Central, where their standout rookie Paul Skenes couldn’t single-handedly lift them to contention. The 2026 season kicks off with a highly anticipated Opening Day matchup between the two teams on April 3 at Citi Field. The game, set for a 1:15 p.m. ET first pitch, will feature a star-studded pitching duel between Skenes and the Mets’ newly acquired ace, Freddy Peralta. Skenes, the defending NL Cy Young Award winner, enters the season with a 1.97 ERA from 2025, the lowest by any Pirates starter since 1920. His performance in the World Baseball Classic and spring training has reinforced his readiness to dominate. Peralta, a two-time All-Star with a 2.70 ERA in 2025, was immediately named the Mets’ Opening Day starter by manager Carlos Mendoza, who praised his credentials and recent success. Fans can watch the game live on MLB.TV, MLB.com, NBC, or Peacock, with audio available via Audacy Mets Radio. Out-of-market viewers should note that live games are accessible in the U.S. and select international regions, though blackouts may apply. For Mets fans, the game will not be broadcast on SNY. The Pirates’ lineup for the opener is expected to lean on a revamped middle order, with Oneil Cruz leading the charge.#new_york_mets #paul_skenes #pittsburgh_pirates #carlos_mendoza #freddy_peralta

2026 Fantasy Baseball Rankings: Sleepers, Busts, Breakouts from Model That Nailed Cal Raleigh's Season The 2026 Major League Baseball season is set to begin in less than 24 hours, with the Giants and Yankees facing off on Wednesday night. As fantasy baseball drafts approach their final stages, experts are emphasizing the importance of identifying undervalued players in the mid-to-late rounds to build competitive rosters. While top-tier picks like Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, and Juan Soto remain the consensus choices, the real value lies in uncovering sleepers, breakouts, and potential busts. SportsLine’s Projection Model, which accurately predicted Cal Raleigh’s breakout season in 2025, has released its latest rankings to guide fantasy managers. The model, which simulated the entire 2026 season 10,000 times, highlights key players across all positions. Raleigh, now a top-five catcher in the model’s rankings, delivered a historic 60-homer season in 2025, proving the model’s ability to spot talent. This year, the team behind the model is sharing its insights, offering cheat sheets and rankings for every position. These resources are updated daily to reflect new trades, signings, and injuries, ensuring fantasy managers have the latest data. Among the standout sleepers is Brandon Lowe, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ second baseman. Traded from the Rays in the offseason, Lowe is projected to be a cornerstone of the Pirates’ lineup, hitting near the top of the order. His 31 home runs and 83 RBI in 2025 marked his best performance since 2021, and the model ranks him as the No. 6 second baseman, ahead of players like Nico Hoerner and Marcus Semien. Despite being drafted at pick No. 113, the model believes Lowe’s production will exceed expectations. For breakouts, Jonathan Aranda, the Rays’ first baseman, is a prime candidate.#sportsline #cal_raleigh #pittsburgh_pirates #rays #brandon_lowe

Pittsburgh Pirates' Top Prospect Seth Hernandez to Start Spring Breakout Game The Pittsburgh Pirates have announced that right-handed pitcher Seth Hernandez, one of their top prospects in the farm system, will start in the annual Spring Breakout Game. The event, which showcases the best young talent from both teams, will take place on March 20 at LECOM Park in Bradenton, Fla. Hernandez will face the Detroit Tigers in a matchup set for 7:35 p.m. ET, with MLB Network broadcasting the game for fans. The Spring Breakout Game serves as a platform for emerging prospects to demonstrate their skills, and Hernandez is expected to make a strong impression. Ranked as the Pirates’ top pitching prospect for the event, he is the second-highest-rated pitcher on the team behind Bubba Chandler. His talent has also earned him a place among the league’s top prospects, with rankings of 29th on MLB Pipeline, 38th on Baseball America, and 49th on ESPN. Hernandez was selected by the Pirates with the sixth overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft from Corona High School in California. His performance in high school has already drawn attention, and the opportunity to showcase his abilities in a professional setting will be a key step in his development. Hernandez’s potential as a future ace is supported by his physical tools and advanced mechanics. His fastball routinely reaches 100 mph, and his changeup exhibits significant movement, reaching the high-80s. He also possesses a reliable slider and curveball, which he will continue to refine in 2026. Pirates catcher Rafael Flores Jr., who worked with Hernandez during the offseason, praised his work ethic and confidence. “19-year-olds shouldn’t be throwing 100 mph, and he is,” Flores said at PiratesFest. “That shows how hard he works.#detroit_tigers #pittsburgh_pirates #seth_hernandez #spring_breakout_game #rafael_flores_jr