Marlins Triumph Over Pirates in Season Opener
In an exciting start to the 2025 baseball season, the Miami Marlins edged out the Pittsburgh Pirates 5-4 on opening day. The victory was particularly significant as it marked the debut of new Marlins manager Clayton McCullough and the first career opening day start for Pittsburgh’s Paul Skenes.
Key Moments of the Game
The Marlins sealed their win in dramatic fashion during the ninth inning. With Nick Fortes leading off with a triple against Pirates reliever David Bednar, Xavier Edwards was intentionally walked, setting the stage for Kyle Stowers. Stowers delivered a clutch line drive to the right field, scoring pinch runner Javier Sanoja and securing the victory for Miami.
Pitching Performances
Pittsburgh’s Skenes, the reigning National League Rookie of the Year, showcased his skills by striking out seven batters over 5 1/3 innings while allowing only two runs on three hits, supplemented by two walks. Meanwhile, Marlins pitcher Sandy Alcántara, who returned from Tommy John surgery, threw for 4 2/3 innings, also striking out seven but giving up two runs on two hits.
Rallying for a Comeback
The game saw a pivotal moment in the eighth inning when the Marlins tied the game at 4-all with back-to-back run-scoring singles from Otto López and Dane Myers. Earlier, Bryan Reynolds had put the Pirates ahead with a two-run single in the fifth inning, and Nick Gonzales extended the lead with a two-run home run in the sixth, bringing the score to 4-1.
Crucial Ninth-Inning Defense
In the final inning, Jesú Tinoco (1-0) took the mound for the Marlins, managing to escape a tight situation after allowing a double to Tommy Pham and a walk to Reynolds. Both advanced on a double steal, but Tinoco remained composed, striking out Joey Bart to end the threat.
Looking Ahead
The Marlins will look to build on this opening day victory with RHP Connor Gillispie (0-0, 2.25 in 2024) set to start the next game against the Pirates, who will counter with RHP Mitch Keller (11-12, 4.25 in 2024) on the mound.
