The Pirates lost to the Yankees in the season finale yesterday, bringing an end to a disappointing campaign that started with great promise. Joe Block has the story.
Manager Derek Shelton says the Pirates look at their last two opponents, both division champs, and see what they need to do to play at their level.
Shelton was happy with the way the Bucs played against the Yankees.
Shelton is optimistic that the Pirates are on the way, led by veterans like Brian Reynolds.
Infielder Isaiah Kiner-Falefa had a chance at a $250,000 bonus if he got four plate appearances yesterday, but he was not in Derek Shelton’s lineup. Kiner-Falefa was acquired from the Blue Jays on July 30th and the two teams would have split the bonus. After finding out that the infielder needed only those four plate appearance, Shelton offered him the chance to play but Kiner-Falefa declined, saying he “didn’t deserve it.”
On The Ben Cherington Show on WCCS, the Bucs’ GM praised Kiner-Falefa for making the decision.
Looking ahead to 2025 already, Cherington is excited about the Pirates’ pitching possibilities, with established starters being pushed by youngsters.
Cherington says the Pirates are getting better in the field and at the plate, but they’re not satisfied yet.
Next up for the Bucs: Saturday, February 22nd, 2025 against the Orioles in spring training.
MLB
The Mets and Braves square off in a doubleheader today to decide the National League Wild Card winners. If either side sweeps, that team plus the Diamondbacks will earn postseason berths. If they split, they both make the playoffs and the D-Backs are out.
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