The Pittsburgh Pirates lost their first game of the season, falling 7-3 to the Minnesota Twins Wednesday at PNC Park. The Bucs were holding a 3-2 lead on a cold and snowy evening, when the Twins put together a four-run sixth inning. Josh Bell hit his first home run of the season. Corey Dickerson and Josh Harrison had two hit each. Pirate starter Ivan Nova took a tough-luck loss. He allowed five earned runs on five hits, while pitching 5-1/3rd innings. The Pirates host the Cincinnati Reds at 7:05pm. Steven Brault will start for the Bucs. Homer Bailey starts for the Reds. First pitch is 7:05pm.
Pirate shortstop Jordy Mercer missed Wednesday’s game after jamming his hand diving back into first base during Monday’s home opener.