Image Credits: https://images.app.goo.gl/tjUc7WV4Y78zPzc48

This year’s Spring Breakout Games kicked off with the Pittsburgh Pirates hosting the Baltimore Orioles on March, 14 for a tremendous starting matchup. Fortunately enough, I was able to attend the games, as well as partake in the festivities around the ballpark. 

The day started with the big league teams playing a full nine-inning game. As soon as the game concluded, fans scurried toward the Pirate Clubhouse where lines half a mile deep were waiting to meet the prospects. One Pirates, one Orioles. The players signed autographs, took pictures, and got to meet as many fans as they could before taking the field.

Many fans, including myself, went toward the Pirates bullpen, where Paul Skenes, last year’s number one pick was preparing for his start in this inaugural game. I honestly have never seen a bigger crowd gather to watch one person warm up. 

When the game began and Paul took the mound, it was dead silence as fans watched and anticipated this special moment. Skenes faced number one prospect, Jackson Holliday after striking out Enrique Bradfield Jr to lead things off. It was a sight to see as those two batted, especially with Skenes prevailing to set Holliday down on strikes. The crowd went into a frenzy after that battle watching the two best go head to head.

The rest of the game did not provide much in the offense category but a lot of great defense and picthing. The Pirates pitching core only allowed one Oriole hit all game long and struck out 9 batters. 3 of them came from a great innings work by Pirates fifth-round pick in 2023, Patrick Reilly. 

As the game was occurring many players were being interviewed or had a live microphone to get their thoughts on the game. All seemingly approving of this idea. 

For a so-called minor league game, LECOM Park was filled with fans from first pitch to the end, and the most anticipated game of the spring was a success, not only for the teams, but the league. 

Well done MLB, now be sure to keep it up.