Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh Pirates Experience Tough Losses in Split-Squad Exhibition Games
3/7/2026, 12:34:43 PM
Overview of the Split-Squad Games
The Pittsburgh Pirates faced a challenging day in their split-squad exhibition games on March 10, 2026, suffering losses to the Philadelphia Phillies and the Toronto Blue Jays. In Bradenton, the Pirates lost 14-10 to the Phillies, while in Dunedin, they fell 9-2 to the Blue Jays. Both games highlighted the team's struggles, particularly in pivotal innings where they allowed significant runs.
Game Highlights and Player Performances
In the matchup against the Phillies, the Pirates initially led 3-0 before conceding nine runs in the fourth inning. Notable performances included home runs from Ryan O’Hearn, Yordany De Los Santos, Derek Berg, and Omar Alfonzo. De Los Santos has now hit three home runs this spring, while O’Hearn has two. On the mound, Braxton Ashcraft started strong, pitching three shutout innings before being pulled after allowing two runs in the fourth, striking out five of the twelve batters he faced.
Against the Blue Jays, the Pirates again faced a significant setback, giving up five runs in the fourth inning after leading 2-0. Jake Mangum had a strong performance, going 2-for-3, while Dominic Fletcher contributed with a home run and finished 2-for-3 with a double and two runs scored. Starter Bubba Chandler also had a solid outing, allowing one run in three-plus innings while striking out five of the thirteen batters he faced.
Upcoming Games
Looking ahead, the Pirates are scheduled to play against the Detroit Tigers on Saturday, with left-handed pitcher Hunter Barco expected to start. On Sunday, they will face the Boston Red Sox.
Injury Update: Jeremy Pena
In related news, Houston Astros All-Star shortstop Jeremy Pena may miss the opening day due to a broken right ring finger sustained during a pre-World Baseball Classic exhibition game. Pena expressed uncertainty about his recovery timeline but remains hopeful to join his team for the season opener against the Los Angeles Angels on March 26. “Injuries are a part of the game. I wish I was out there playing with the guys,” Pena stated.
Decline in Extra-Base Hits
The broader context of Major League Baseball has seen a decline in doubles and triples, with Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts attributing this trend to players focusing on exit velocity and launch angle. The number of doubles dropped to 7,745 in 2025 from 8,254 in 2016, while triples fell to 628 from 873 in the same period. Despite rule changes aimed at increasing action on the basepaths, such as larger bases, the trend persists, affecting the dynamics of the game.
Criticism of Current Trends
Critics, including players like Andrew Benintendi of the Chicago White Sox, acknowledge the shift in gameplay dynamics. While some fans enjoy the increase in home runs and stolen bases, the decline in doubles and triples represents a loss of excitement during games. The strategic positioning of outfielders, often playing deeper to prevent extra-base hits, has also contributed to this trend, as noted by Roberts and other players.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Injuries are a part of the game. I wish I was out there playing with the guys.” — Jeremy Pena, All-Star Shortstop, Houston Astros
- “And you know a few years back that probably would have been just an automatic double. … So that was the first time I really noticed it. The defense alignment, it changes everything. You know you really got to hit a ball in the gap or you got to hit it down the line to get doubles.” — Nolan Arenado, Eight-Time All-Star
This comprehensive overview captures the current state of the Pittsburgh Pirates and highlights the ongoing trends in Major League Baseball, providing a snapshot of the challenges and dynamics facing the teams as the season approaches.
