Pirates

Pirates Lose to Yankees, Tie Blue Jays in Split Squad Games

Published

1 year ago

March 2, 2023

Mitch Keller was hurt by the longball Thursday as a Pittsburgh Pirates split squad lost to the New York Yankees 9-1 in a Grapefruit League game at LECOM Park in Bradenton, Fla.

The Pirates’ other squad tied the Toronto Blue 2-2 at TD Ballpark in Dunedin, Fla.

Keller allowed three runs in two innings to take the loss. The Yankees scored all the runs on home runs, a leadoff shot by Anthony Volpe to start the game and a two-run blast by Rafael Ortega.

Keller needed 47 pitches to record his six outs, 33 for strikes.

The Pirates (1-4-1) did not get a hit until Matt Fraizer singled with one out in the ninth inning.

Drew Maggi homered with two outs to keep the Pirates from being shut out. The 33-year-old non-roster utility player is 3 for 6 with a double, home run and three RBIs in four games this spring.

Center field prospect Travis Swaggerty threw out Estevan Florial at home plate to complete a double play in the fourth inning.

Non-roster invitee Tyler Chatwood gave up four runs in one inning of relief.

Against the Blue Jays, Roansy Contreras gave up one run in two innings and struck out three of the eight batters he faced. He threw 21 of his 33 pitches for strikes.

Prospect Mike Burrows pitched two scoreless relief inning and Dauri Moreta had two strikeouts in one perfect inning. Connor Joe had two hits, including a double.

Vince Velasquez is scheduled to start for the Pirates when they visit the Baltimore Orioles at 6:05 p.m. Friday in Sarasota, Fla. The game will be broadcast on 93.7 FM The Fan and the Pirates Radio Network.