In our daily Wake-Up Call, we get you ready for the day with a complete look at all things Pittsburgh Pirates.
A great first impression
Yesterday the Pittsburgh Pirates kicked off the home portion of 2018 with a clutch 5-4 win over the Minnesota Twins. The game saw new third baseman, Colin Moran make one hell of a first impression. The Pirates had already scored one run but were dangerously close to leaving the bases loaded. The rookie had a 3-2 count and well, I’ll let it speak for itself:
Moran’s first career grand slam gave the Pirates a 5-0 lead and proved to be the difference as the Pirates offense went cold the rest of the game. It was truly an electric moment as the crowd of 31,000 demanded a curtain call from the rookie. That isn’t a bad first home game of the 2018 season.
Moran wasn’t the only young player that made a difference as Jameson Taillon pitched like an ace is supposed to. He went 5.1 innings, allowed two runs on four hits, and struck out nine. Outside of his final inning, the Twins weren’t able to really tough Taillon and he looked absolutely dominant at times. Jameson Taillon has all the mental toughness to be a top of the rotation superstar and if yesterday was any indication, he is going to impress a lot of fans in 2018.
A lively crowd means what?
I mentioned earlier that a little over 31,000 people saw the Pirates 5-4 win over the Twins. That is the smallest Opening Day crowd in 36 years. This is definitely not surprising as there is a lot of fan backlash towards the Pittsburgh Pirates. However, the people there were energetic and engaged. What does this mean? It means that there are still a lot of very passionate Pirates fans, but there is a small but respectable minority that is speaking with their wallets.
I respect the fans that are currently boycotting this team. No sports team is entitled to your money or your time. If these fans feel like the best approach is to boycott this team, then that is their right. However, I also respect the fans that decided to attend the game and cheer on their favorite baseball club.
Whether you’re boycotting or not, you should respect the other side. Boycotting fans shouldn’t belittle or harass those that choose to attend Pirates games. Fans at games should show the exact same kindness to those boycotting. It really isn’t that complicated. You can also be angry about the team’s direction and still be a fan. I know that is STUNNING but it’s true.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are currently 4-0 and have played some good baseball to start the season. This team needs a good start and I imagine if the winning continues into May and June, you’ll see some of the boycotters making their return to PNC Park. Winning is the ultimate cure-all in professional sports and no city holds its teams to higher standards than Pittsburghers.
Baseball talk on the web
MLB pushes back on Tigers’ claim of replay errors
The squeezing of baseball’s middle class
Let’s give Gabe Kapler a chance, please
Pirates Guide – the perfect gift for a Pittsburgh Pirates fan
Our 280-page Pittsburgh Pirates 2018 season preview book is now available on Amazon in e-book and paperback formats! CLICK HERE to learn more. Makes a perfect gift for any Pirates fan in your life.
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