Jared Triolo’s RBI single in the 12th inning sealed the Pittsburgh Pirates’ comeback victory over the Miami Marlins with a 6-5 win on opening day Thursday.
Triolo’s hit against Marlins pitcher Declan Cronin brought home Ke’Bryan Hayes, who was placed on base automatically. Pirates reliever Jose Hernandez then secured his first career save by retiring Luis Arraez, Josh Bell, and Bryan De La Cruz in his inning of relief.
Following starter Mitch Keller’s performance, where he allowed five runs over 5 2/3 innings, Pittsburgh’s bullpen shined, limiting the Marlins to just one hit.
Luis Ortiz, who earned the win, delivered crucial scoreless innings in the 10th and 11th, inducing two double plays to set up Hernandez’s safe opportunity.
Marlins starter Jesús Luzardo, who struck out eight batters, was pulled after five innings and 85 pitches despite a strong outing. Left fielder Bryan Reynolds hit a two-run homer off Luzardo in the third, but Miami took a 5-2 lead as Pittsburgh struggled against the left-hander.
Despite facing injuries in their starting rotation, the Marlins couldn’t hold off the Pirates’ late surge, leading to their sixth consecutive opening-day loss at home.
Pinch-hitter Eddie Olivares and shortstop Oneil Cruz added solo homers for the Pirates, while Michael A. Taylor’s run in the eighth tied the game.
Marlins hitters Josh Bell and Jake Burger contributed offensively, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win. Former AL batting champion Tim Anderson made his Marlins debut with an RBI double, while Luis Arraez went hitless in six at-bats. Brazilian soccer star Neymar threw the ceremonial first pitch for the Marlins.
