The Pittsburgh Pirates completed their Grapefruit League play with a 4-3 victory over Toronto Monday. Marco Gonzales ended his spring with his best outing, allowing three hits and one unearned run over three innings. He struck out two. Ke’Bryan Hayes led the Bucs with two hits. He finished tied for the MLB lead with 21 hits this spring. Henry Davis, who was named the Pirates starting catcher, added a double.
The Bucs completed their pre-season 13-16-1 overall and led all of baseball with a franchise-record 49 home runs this spring. They begin their regular season Thursday in Miami.
The Pirates finalized their regular season roster Monday. Rookie pitcher Jared Jones has made the starting rotation, which will also include left-hander Bailey Falter despite his spring struggles. Several players will begin the season on the injured list. In addition to two relievers, that list includes catcher Yasmani Grandal.
The Pirates also announced last year’s top MLB draft pick Paul Skenes will start his season at Triple-A Indianapolis.