The Latest Breaking News from Pirates

MILWAUKEE — Loud, powerful strikes do not happen often against Brewers pitcher Corbin Burnes, as the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner takes immense pride in keeping opposing bats quiet. That much was evident when Burnes had an MLB-best 2.43 ERA in 28 starts last year and allowed a…

The news of Ke’Bryan Hayes’ contract extension last week was met with a lot of approval from both Pirates fans and media alike. Hayes was given the largest contract in franchise history as he signed for eight years and $70 million.

PHILADELPHIA — When Jackie Robinson stepped out on to Ebbets Field in 1947 in the alabaster Brooklyn Dodgers uniform, “American apartheid flashed into view like wicked lightning,” in the words of author Roger Kahn. A tempest of change had arrived and its impact would be felt across America extending way…

PITTSBURGH — Lunch time Tuesday featured news that the Pirates had avoided an arbitration hearing with their best player, signing Bryan Reynolds to a two-year contract worth $13.5 million. It ended with a victory that was even more unlikely, especially after an ugly first inning.

The All-Star starter in 2021 will make more than $13 million over the next two seasons.

Cubs reliever Michael Rucker threw 2 1⁄3 innings against the Pirates on Wednesday to keep the bullpen fresh.

PITTSBURGH — Former red-bearded Pirate Colin Moran made a habit of homering in home openers, doing so in three straight seasons from 2018-2020. Perhaps the current red-bearded Pirate, outfielder Ben Gamel, can claim the next day as his.

The right-hander allowed six runs in 3 2⁄3 innings against Pittsburgh.

This was a classy move by the Pirates before their home opener on Tuesday.