The Pirates of Pittsburgh had such high hopes on Thursday. Third base prospect Ke’Bryan Hayes was signed to an eight-year, $70 million agreement just before the start of the season.

The day went downhill once we got to the Hayes extension, unfortunately. The 2022 season opened with a 9-0 loss for the Pittsburgh Pirates at Busch Stadium against the St. Louis Cardinals.

The Pittsburgh Pirates’ luck quickly began to turn for the worst. After the first inning, they were behind, and it stayed that way: 1-0. Moreover, there was a significant fright on the road.

The Pittsburgh Pirates, one of Major League Baseball’s oldest franchises, have had a storied history filled with ups and downs. From triumphant seasons to historic rivalries, let’s dive into some of the most frequently asked questions about this iconic baseball team.

Pittsburgh Pirates Everything Goes Wrong On Opening Day In ST

Pirates, with their notorious reputations, have always been a subject of fascination. Their tales of treasure, bravery, and sometimes unexpected kindness have left a mark on history.

While some pirates left behind tales of terror, others became legends for their successful voyages and kind gestures. Here’s a look at some of the most interesting facets of pirate lore.

Read Also:

  1. Steam Content File Locked
  2. How Fast Do Snowboard Cross Riders Go
  3. Three New Locations For Starfield Revealed

Contents

Bad A Game’s Mood is Established in the First Inning.

The Pirates were unable to get a hit off Cardinals starter Adam Wainwright in the top of the first inning. Then a terrifying situation arose in the bottom of the inning for the Pirates. Following an on-field examination by Derek Shelton and the team’s medical staff, Hayes was taken out of the game.

As soon as news of Hayes’ condition spread, Pirates supporters everywhere held their breath. Hayes apparently only suffered from slight cramps, so maybe this won’t be too much of a setback.

In addition to Hayes being removed from the game, the Red Birds scored first in the bottom of the first inning. To start the game, Dylan Carlson reached on a bloop double to shallow left field on a weakly hit pop up that Hayes almost made into an amazing play.

Then, Hoy Park, the second baseman, messed up a ground ball that should have resulted in at least one out but may have resulted in a double play. Pitcher JT Brubaker did not deserve to be in a 1-0 hole after the first inning.

The Game-Winning Home Run was Hit By Tyler O’Neill.

Opening Day starter Brubaker gave up 4 runs on 4 hits, 3 walks, and 2 strikeouts in 3 innings. Although this was not the ideal beginning, Brubaker almost managed to free himself. We’ve already discussed how the first-inning run he allowed wasn’t entirely his fault.

Also in the second inning’s bottom half, he came close to getting off the hook. Brubaker was about to get out of a jam with two outs and two runners on when Cardinal outfielder Tyler O’Neill hit a home run, scoring three runs, off of a 0-1 pitch from Brubaker.

This was the game-changing play that put the Cardinals up by four goals. In spite of the fact that the Pirates’ season came apart in the bottom of the eighth inning, the score might have been 1-0 or 2-0 going into that inning if not for O’Neill’s homer.

It might have resulted in a different approach to managing the inning, which would have kept the Pirates in the game to the very end.

The Bullpen: A Recap

After Brubaker left the game, Wil Crowe came in as the first reliever. Crowe, who has always shown more promise in relief than in the rotation, had a good outing, allowing 0 runs on zero hits while striking out three Cardinals in two innings of work.

Duane Underwood Jr. was up next. Injuring himself after surrendering a double to open the sixth inning, Underwood Jr. had to leave the game. The inherited runner eventually scored, but Heath Hembree was able to escape the inning unscathed.

Underwood Jr.’s injury was not looking good, but the prognosis is still unknown. Injuries are a real possibility for the right-hander, which would force the Pirates to shuffle their roster.

Kevin Newman’s had a Rough Day.

Despite Newman’s Thursday afternoon base hit, the mood among Pirates supporters toward him soured by the end of the game. In the second inning, Newman was thrown out while attempting to steal second base.

In the third inning, he made an error on a routine ground ball. In the fourth inning, he hit into a double play that ended the game. The frustration of Pirates’ supporters will only grow if Newman’s difficulties persist.

It will also increase the volume of those who want Cruz called up to replace Newman in the majors.

When was the Pirates’ Last Winning Season?

The Pittsburgh Pirates’ success has ebbed and flowed over the years. As of the last data update in 2023, the Pirates’ recent winning seasons included a streak from 2013 to 2015, where they reached the playoffs each year but did not advance to the World Series.

The Reds vs. Pirates Rivalry: What’s the Record?

The Cincinnati Reds and the Pittsburgh Pirates share a long-standing rivalry. While the exact record can change with each season, historically, both teams have had their fair share of victories and defeats against each other.

Fans from both sides eagerly await their matchups, as games between these two are always charged with intensity.

Record for Most Pirates in One Place?

While this might sound like a fun trivia question about pirate gatherings, in the context of baseball, it refers to team members. PNC Park in Pittsburgh, the home stadium of the Pittsburgh Pirates, would hold the record in this regard, as it’s where the team gathers for home games. It has a seating capacity of over 38,000.

Who Ended the Pirates?

If we’re discussing game outcomes, many teams have bested the Pirates in crucial games throughout their history.

However, if we consider “ending” as a significant halt in their progress, one could argue that the San Francisco Giants, who defeated the Pirates in the 2014 Wild Card game, ended their chances that year. But no one has “ended” the Pirates as a franchise; they continue to compete in MLB.

Have the Pittsburgh Pirates Ever Been Good?

Absolutely. The Pittsburgh Pirates have had periods of great success. They have won five World Series titles, with their championships coming in 1909, 1925, 1960, 1971, and 1979. Players like Roberto Clemente, Honus Wagner, and Willie Stargell have donned the Pirates’ uniform, adding to the team’s rich legacy.

The 1960 World Series, where Bill Mazeroski hit a walk-off home run to win the championship, remains one of baseball’s most iconic moments.

The Kindest Pirate: Grace O’Malley

While piracy and kindness might seem like an oxymoron, Grace O’Malley stands out as a notable exception. Often called the “Pirate Queen,” O’Malley ruled the seas around Ireland in the late 16th century.

While she was fierce in battle, she was also known for her sense of justice and fairness. Many tales depict her aiding the oppressed, helping those in need, and showing kindness to prisoners.

The Most Successful Pirate: Bartholomew “Black Bart” Roberts

When talking about success in piracy, few could rival the legendary Black Bart. With over 400 ships captured during his career in the early 18th century, Roberts stands out as one of the most successful pirates ever. His cunning tactics and unmatched naval skills made him a force to be reckoned with on the high seas.

Pittsburgh Pirates’ Arch-Nemesis: The Rivalry with the Philadelphia Phillies

While the actual pirates battled on the seas, the Pittsburgh Pirates of Major League Baseball have their own set of rivals.

Among them, their in-state rivalry with the Philadelphia Phillies stands out. The two teams, known collectively as the “Keystone Clash,” have had many memorable games, with each trying to prove its dominance over the other.

The Decline of Pirates: Changing Times and Improved Naval Power

The decline of piracy can be attributed to several factors. As colonial empires expanded, they increased their naval power, making it harder for pirates to operate.

The establishment of trade routes under powerful naval protection and international treaties against piracy further made the pirate’s life challenging. The introduction of faster and more heavily armed ships also played a crucial role in countering piracy.

The Elusive Pirate: Jean Lafitte

Among pirates who managed to evade capture, Jean Lafitte stands out. Operating in the Gulf of Mexico in the early 19th century, Lafitte was both a pirate and a privateer. While he engaged in piracy, he also aided the United States during the War of 1812.

His savvy nature and political alliances ensured he was never captured, making him a legendary figure in pirate lore.

Modern-day Piracy: Is It Illegal?

Yes, piracy is illegal. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) defines piracy and mandates all nations to cooperate in its suppression.

Modern piracy, especially around regions like the Horn of Africa, poses significant threats to shipping. Countries from around the world have taken collective actions to deter and counteract these threats.

Read Also:

  1. Skyrim Civil War Overhaul
  2. Jamaica Track And Field Olympic Trials 2021
  3. Jamal Murray Ready To Return Nuggets Teammate Monte Morris Says

Conclusion

The Pittsburgh Pirates, like any sports franchise, have experienced highs and lows. Their history is filled with memorable moments, legendary players, and significant accomplishments. While they have faced challenges and periods of rebuilding, their legacy in Major League Baseball is undeniable.

Pirates, both on seas and fields, have left an indelible mark on history and culture. From tales of kindness to unmatched success, the world of pirates is as varied as it is fascinating.

Whether looking back at the golden age of piracy or understanding modern piracy, one thing remains clear: the pirate spirit, for better or worse, continues to capture our imagination.