Game Overview
The Pittsburgh Pirates suffered a 15-3 loss to the Minnesota Twins during spring training at Hammond Stadium in Lee County, Florida. The defeat marks their first spring training loss to the Twins and comes as the team has dropped seven of its last 11 games after a 6-2 start. The loss brings their current record to 10-9.
Bullpen Struggles
The game saw significant difficulties in the bullpen. The starting role was assumed by right-handed pitcher Jared Jones after left-handed starter Bailey Falter was scratched due to general body soreness. Jones delivered a disciplined performance over four innings, recording four strikeouts, including three in a single inning, while issuing two walks and allowing one hit. However, subsequent relievers struggled to contain the Twins’ offense. Relief pitcher Jack Carey allowed four hits and a walk early, which paved the way for a five-run opening inning by the Twins.
Critical Innings and Offensive Breakdown
Later relief appearances compounded the trouble. In one challenging inning, a reliever surrendered three hits—including two doubles—two walks, and four runs, only recording one out on a fielder’s choice. A further appearance by another reliever saw the Twins add five more runs, culminating in a 15-0 advantage by the end of the seventh inning. The Pirates managed to scrape together three runs in the top of the ninth inning, highlighted by a two-run home run and an additional solo shot.
Looking Ahead
The Pirates are scheduled to face the Detroit Tigers at LECOM Park on March 14, with first pitch set for 6:05 p.m. On the same day, their young prospects will participate in a Spring Breakout Game against the Philadelphia Phillies, with first pitch at 1:05 p.m. The team will look to regroup and address the bullpen issues as they prepare for these upcoming contests.
