Pittsburgh Pirates Wiretap

George Springer hit his 65th leadoff home run and the Toronto Blue Jays sent Paul Skenes to losses in consecutive starts for the first time this season, beating the Pittsburgh Pirates 5-2 Saturday for their fourth straight win and seventh in 10 games.

Skenes (6-4), the reigning NL Cy Young Award winner, allowed four runs, one walk and a career-high nine hits in five-plus innings with two strikeouts, just his second time with fewer than five this season. His ERA rose to 3.00.

With nearly two months of the 2026 season complete, 22 players from the preseason MLB top 100 prospect list have graduated from eligibility, reshuffling the rankings ahead of what figures to be an active trade deadline season.

Milwaukee Brewers shortstop Jesus Made, 19, moves to the top spot after posting 90th percentile exit velocities that rank among big league averages despite playing in Double-A. His ability to control the strike zone and his defensive profile stand out, though scouts note his swing produces insufficient lift to translate his raw power into home run totals. If that changes in the second half, a significant ranking jump could follow.

Among the most notable movers is Boston Red Sox shortstop Franklin Arias, who climbs from 36th to sixth after posting improved exit velocity and lift rates while maintaining contact. Athletics shortstop Leo De Vries jumps to second after his profile helped pry All-Star closer Mason Miller from Oakland. Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Seth Hernandez rises from 49th to seventh after slider and fastball shape improvements unlocked his ceiling.

Notable graduates from the list include the previous top two prospects, Konnor Griffin and Kevin McGonigle, along with Samuel Basallo, JJ Wetherholt, Bubba Chandler, Carson Benge, Andrew Painter, and Carson Williams, among others.

Seven players currently on active big league rosters remain eligible but could graduate within weeks.

Top-50 MLB Prospects

60FV
1. Jesus Made, SS, Milwaukee Brewers (Previous: 3)
2. Leo De Vries, SS, Athletics (Previous: 11)
3. Colt Emerson, SS, Seattle Mariners (Previous: 6)
4. Max Clark, CF, Detroit Tigers (Previous: 8)
5. Sebastian Walcott, SS, Texas Rangers (Previous: 5)
6. Franklin Arias, SS, Boston Red Sox (Previous: 36)
7. Seth Hernandez, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates (Previous: 49)
8. Eli Willits, SS, Washington Nationals (Previous: 41)
9. Kade Anderson, LHP, Seattle Mariners (Previous: 16)
10. George Lombard Jr., SS, New York Yankees (Previous: 20)
11. Travis Bazzana, 2B, Cleveland Guardians (Previous: 23)
12. Walker Jenkins, CF, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 9)
13. Trey Yesavage, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays (Previous: 14)
14. A.J. Ewing, CF, New York Mets (Previous: 28)
15. Rainiel Rodriguez, C, St. Louis Cardinals (Previous: 19)
16. Aidan Miller, SS, Philadelphia Phillies (Previous: 10)
17. Ryan Sloan, RHP, Seattle Mariners (Previous: 24)

55 FV
18. Josue De Paula, LF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 21)
19. Josuar Gonzalez, SS, San Francisco Giants (Previous: 30)
20. Ethan Salas, C, San Diego Padres (Previous: 110)
21. Ryan Waldschmidt, CF, Arizona Diamondbacks (Previous: 63)
22. Thomas White, LHP, Miami Marlins (Previous: 18)
23. Alfredo Duno, C, Cincinnati Reds (Previous: 29)
24. Connor Prielipp, LHP, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 54)
25. Caleb Bonemer, 3B, Chicago White Sox (Previous: 34)
26. Luis Pena, SS, Milwaukee Brewers (Previous: 26)
27. Ethan Holliday, SS, Colorado Rockies (Previous: 66)
28. Liam Doyle, LHP, St. Louis Cardinals (Previous: 50)
29. Tyler Bremner, RHP, Los Angeles Angels (Previous: 56)
30. Theo Gillen, CF, Tampa Bay Rays (Previous: 92)
31. Ralphy Velazquez, 1B, Cleveland Guardians (Previous: 33)
32. Jett Williams, SS, Milwaukee Brewers (Previous: 32)
33. JoJo Parker, SS, Toronto Blue Jays (Previous: 52)
34. Zyhir Hope, RF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 40)

50 FV
35. Cam Caminiti, LHP, Atlanta Braves (Previous: 53)
36. Jonah Tong, RHP, New York Mets (Previous: 31)
37. Noah Schultz, LHP, Chicago White Sox (Previous: 96)
38. Kaelen Culpepper, SS, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 79)
39. Angel Genao, SS, Cleveland Guardians (Previous: 80)
40. Gage Jump, LHP, Athletics (Previous: 42)
41. Jhonny Level, SS, San Francisco Giants (Previous: 84)
42. Emmanuel Rodriguez, CF, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 97)
43. Josh Hammond, SS, Kansas City Royals (Previous: 132)
44. Edward Florentino, CF, Pittsburgh Pirates (Previous: 78)
45. Eduardo Quintero, CF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 37)
46. Anthony Eyanson, RHP, Boston Red Sox (Previous: NR)
47. Eduardo Tait, C, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 38)
48. Didier Fuentes, RHP, Atlanta Braves (Previous: 88)
49. River Ryan, RHP, Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 125)
50. Jamie Arnold, LHP, Athletics (Previous: 60)

Thursday’s series finale will be broadcast locally on SportsNet PT (Pirates feed) and RASN (Rangers feed). First pitch is scheduled for 8:05 PM ET. Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

The Pittsburgh Pirates (14-10) and the Texas Rangers (12-12) conclude their three-game series this Thursday, April 23, in Arlington. After splitting the first two contests—a 5-1 Rangers win followed by an 8-4 Pirates victory—tonight’s matchup serves as a decisive rubber match. The Pirates have been road warriors early in the 2026 season, holding a 6-5 record away from PNC Park, while the Rangers look to move above .500 in front of their home crowd.

The Rangers’ offense has been anchored by Brandon Nimmo, who leads the club with a .364 OBP and four home runs. He is joined by a red-hot Josh Jung, who has collected eight doubles over his last 10 games. For the Pirates, Oneil Cruz continues to be a highlight machine, leading the team with seven home runs and a .551 slugging percentage. Catch every pitch and home run live on Fubo.

The pitching duel features a clash of generations. The Rangers turn to the legendary Jacob deGrom (1-0), who has been vintage with a 2.29 ERA and 25 strikeouts in his early 2026 starts. He faces Pirates' rising star Bubba Chandler (1-1), who holds a solid 3.15 ERA and is looking to prove he can hang with the elite. You can witness this interleague finale streaming live on Fubo.

The key storyline for Texas is their pitching efficiency, as their staff ranks 9th in MLB with a 3.61 ERA. For Pittsburgh, the focus remains on their league-leading 3.34 team ERA and whether they can silence the Rangers' home bats. With both teams seeking a signature series win, expect a high-intensity battle in Arlington. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Pirates vs. Rangers Betting Odds & Predictions

The Rangers enter the series finale as home favorites. Oddsmakers are heavily favoring Jacob deGrom's track record, though the Pirates' 15-9 record against the spread (ATS) suggests they are a dangerous underdog.

Prediction: Jacob deGrom at home is traditionally a lock, and the Rangers have shown they can stifle the Pirates' bats when they find their rhythm. While Chandler is talented, the Rangers' veteran experience should edge out a narrow victory. Final Score: Rangers 4, Pirates 2.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Playmakers

The marquee matchup features the elite strikeout stuff of Jacob deGrom against the raw power of Oneil Cruz. Cruz’s ability to turn on high-velocity fastballs will be the primary test for deGrom early.

Texas relies on Brandon Nimmo and Josh Jung to anchor their offense. Nimmo leads the team in most on-base categories, consistently setting the table for the Rangers' power hitters.

*Recent form estimated based on last 10 games.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

Fubo is the essential destination for baseball fans. Catch regional sports networks like SportsNet PT and RASN, national broadcasts, and premier matchups with the most flexible streaming plans available, ensuring you never miss a highlight from the Pirates or Rangers.

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Rangers as they aim to solidify their standing in the AL West.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wednesday’s series opener will be broadcast locally on SportsNet Pittsburgh (SNPT) and Rangers Sports Network (RSN). First pitch is scheduled for 8:05 PM ET (7:05 PM CT). Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

The Pittsburgh Pirates (13-10) look to bounce back this Wednesday, April 22, against the Texas Rangers (12-11) at Globe Life Field. After dropping the series opener on Tuesday night, Pittsburgh is eager to reclaim their footing in the NL Central. The Rangers, currently riding a four-game home winning streak, are hoping to push further above .500 and continue their climb up the AL West standings.

Pittsburgh’s offense has been powered by Brandon Lowe, who leads the team with seven home runs and 18 RBIs. Shortstop Oneil Cruz also remains a threat, coming off a strong multi-hit performance. Texas counters with Corey Seager, who anchors the lineup with five homers, and Brandon Nimmo, who has been seeing the ball well recently. Expect a competitive battle as both offenses look to exploit the Arlington air. Catch every pitch live on Fubo.

The individual matchups feature a battle of two young, high-ceiling arms. Pittsburgh turns to Braxton Ashcraft (1-1), who has been sensational with a 2.38 ERA and 1.06 WHIP. He faces Texas right-hander Jack Leiter (1-1), who possesses elite strikeout stuff but is looking to lower his 4.87 ERA. You can witness this interleague clash streaming live on Fubo.

The key storyline for the Pirates is their efficiency on the road, where they have played to a .500 record. For the Rangers, the primary focus is the health of Wyatt Langford, who left Tuesday's game with forearm stiffness. If the Rangers can maintain their offensive pressure early, they are in a prime position to take the series. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Pirates vs. Rangers Betting Odds & Predictions

The Rangers enter the series opener as slight favorites at home. Oddsmakers are backing Texas’ recent home dominance and Jack Leiter’s potential for a breakout outing, though Ashcraft’s elite metrics make this a very tight line.

Prediction: Braxton Ashcraft has the clear advantage in early-season consistency, but the Rangers are notoriously difficult to beat at home when Seager is hitting. Expect a tight contest that hinges on the bullpens. Final Score: Rangers 4, Pirates 3.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Playmakers

The marquee matchup features the power of Brandon Lowe against the electric stuff of Jack Leiter. Lowe’s ability to drive the ball to the gaps will be a major test for Leiter’s command early.

*Season stats as of April 22.

Texas relies on Corey Seager and Brandon Nimmo to anchor their offense, while Jack Leiter looks to stabilize a rotation missing several veteran arms.

*Estimated stats for Nimmo over last 10 games.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

Fubo is the essential destination for baseball fans. Catch regional sports networks like SportsNet Pittsburgh and RSN, national broadcasts, and premier matchups with the most flexible streaming plans available, ensuring you never miss a highlight from the Pirates or Rangers.

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Rangers as they aim to climb the AL West standings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh Pirates manager Don Kelly said Wednesday that a demotion for shortstop Konnor Griffin is not being considered, despite the 19-year-old posting a .189 batting average and .522 OPS through his first 12 major league games.

The club backed that stance by signing Griffin to a nine-year, $140 million contract, signaling a long-term commitment to its top prospect regardless of early struggles.

"I don't even know at what point that would enter the discussion," Kelly said. "That's not even in the realm of possibility right now. He's going to be up here."

Griffin's Statcast profile offers reason for patience. His sprint speed ranks in the 96th percentile and his bat speed in the 80th. A Cubs official noted that in his final at-bat at Wrigley Field Sunday, Griffin hit a 106.6-mph line drive on a down-and-away 3-2 sweeper from Ethan Roberts that sat well outside the strike zone.

"He's doing great, honestly," Kelly said. "We're talking about a 19-year-old kid who has, what, five games above Double A? He's learning. We know there's going to be a lot of development still in the big leagues."

Kelly also highlighted a sequence from the Pirates' 16-5 win over Washington Monday. Griffin drew a walk off Cade Cavalli in the second inning, prompting the pitcher to rush his delivery and trigger a four-run rally.

"The pitcher sped up, started throwing balls, trying to be quicker to have him not steal," Kelly said. "It wasn't a home run. But he changed the game because he got on base."

Pittsburgh views Griffin as a complete player capable of affecting games both in the field and on the bases, with further development still ahead.

Monday’s series opener will be broadcast locally on SportsNet Pittsburgh (Pirates feed) and Nationals.TV (Nationals feed). First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 PM ET. Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

The Washington Nationals (7-8) head into PNC Park this Monday, April 13, riding a wave of momentum after an impressive weekend sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers. Washington's offense found its spark on the road, outscoring the Brewers 18-10 over three games. However, their quest to reach the .500 mark faces its toughest test yet in the Pittsburgh Pirates (9-6), who currently sit atop the NL Central.

The Pirates are sending their phenom and defending Cy Young winner, Paul Skenes, to the mound. After a shaky Opening Day, Skenes has returned to form, allowing only two runs over his last 11-plus innings. Washington counters with Cade Cavalli, who has looked sharp in the early going with a 2.51 ERA. With the Nationals' young hitters like James Wood finding their power, this matchup promises high-velocity fireworks. Catch every strikeout live on Fubo.

The individual matchups are highlighted by the power struggle between Pittsburgh's core and Washington's rising stars. Bryan Reynolds continues to be a steady force for the Bucs, while the Nationals will lean on CJ Abrams to ignite the top of the order. With both teams featuring aggressive base-running strategies, the battle on the paths will be just as critical as the one on the rubber.

The pitching duel is a showcase of elite young talent: Skenes' triple-digit heater against Cavalli's refined arsenal. You can witness this National League clash streaming live on Fubo.

Washington’s ability to navigate Skenes' dominant slider will be the game's defining storyline. For the Pirates, jump-starting an offense that has relied heavily on late-inning heroics will be key to supporting their ace. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Nationals vs. Pirates Betting Odds & Predictions

The Pirates enter the opener as the clear favorites. Between the home-field advantage and Skenes' historical dominance at PNC Park, the moneyline reflects strong confidence in a Pittsburgh victory.

Prediction: While the Nationals are hot, facing Paul Skenes is a different animal. Expect Cavalli to keep it close early, but Pittsburgh’s rotation edge should eventually pull them through. Final Score: Pirates 4, Nationals 2.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Playmakers

The marquee matchup features James Wood against Paul Skenes. Wood's massive power will be put to the ultimate test against the league's most imposing pitcher.

Pittsburgh relies on the discipline of Bryan Reynolds and the raw power of Oneil Cruz to pressure opposing rotations from the first pitch.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

Fubo is the essential destination for baseball fans. Catch regional sports networks like SportsNet Pittsburgh, national broadcasts, and premier matchups with the most flexible streaming plans available, ensuring you never miss a highlight from the Nationals or Pirates.

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Pirates as they aim to solidify their lead in the NL Central.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phil Garner, a three-time All-Star infielder who went on to manage the Astros to their first World Series appearance, has died. He was 76.

Garner's family issued a statement Sunday saying he had died Saturday after a two-plus-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

"Phil never lost his signature spark of life," Garner's son, Ty, said in a statement. "He was so well known for his love for baseball, which was with him until the end."

Friday’s series opener will be broadcast locally on Marquee Sports Network (Cubs feed) and SportsNet Pittsburgh (Pirates feed). First pitch is scheduled for 2:20 PM ET. Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

The Pittsburgh Pirates (7-5) and Chicago Cubs (6-6) set the stage for a classic NL Central battle as they kick off a three-game series at historic Wrigley Field this Friday afternoon. Pittsburgh has been one of the league's early surprises, leaning on a high-contact offense and a resilient bullpen. They travel to Chicago coming off a hard-fought series against the Padres, where new faces like Nick Yorke have already begun to make an impact.

The Cubs return home after a grueling road trip through Tampa, looking to ignite the "Friendly Confines" crowd. While the rotation has taken some hits with injuries to young arms, veteran leadership from Jameson Taillon and Ian Happ remains the backbone of the club. Expect a tactical, small-ball approach from both sides in the afternoon winds of Chicago. Catch every strikeout and Ivy-bound fly ball live on Fubo.

The pitching duel features two right-handers looking to stabilize their early-season numbers. The Pirates turn to Carmen Mlodzinski (RHP), who has shown flashes of dominance with a 4.00 ERA and high strikeout potential. He faces the Cubs' Shota Imanaga (LHP), who is looking to bounce back after a tough road outing. You can witness this divisional clash streaming live on Fubo.

The key storyline for Pittsburgh will be the integration of young talent; prospect Konnor Griffin recently inked a massive extension, signaling a new era of Pirates baseball. For Chicago, monitoring the health of Ian Happ (bruised heel) will be critical, as the lineup relies heavily on his on-base ability. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Pirates vs. Cubs Betting Odds & Predictions

The Cubs enter the series opener as slight home favorites. Oddsmakers are banking on the Wrigley Field advantage and Imanaga's ability to navigate a lineup that has struggled slightly against high-quality left-handed pitching.

Prediction: Wrigley Field afternoons often favor the pitchers if the wind is blowing in. Expect a low-scoring affair where Chicago’s veteran bullpen secures a close victory. Final Score: Cubs 4, Pirates 3.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Playmakers

The marquee matchup features the elite athleticism of Konnor Griffin against the deceptive delivery of Shota Imanaga. Griffin’s ability to handle the breaking ball will be a major test for the rookie.

*Stats from recent series.

Chicago relies on the high-contact bat of Nico Hoerner and the veteran presence of Ian Happ to anchor an offense that ranks in the top half of the National League for runs scored.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

Fubo is the essential destination for baseball fans. Catch regional sports networks like Marquee Sports Network and SportsNet Pittsburgh, national broadcasts, and premier matchups with the most flexible streaming plans available, ensuring you never miss a highlight from the Pirates or Cubs.

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Pirates as they aim for the NL Central crown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Major League Baseball's average salary climbed 3.4% to a record $5.34 million on Opening Day, according to an Associated Press study, with the New York Mets topping league payrolls for the fourth consecutive year at $352.2 million.

Mets outfielder Juan Soto remains the sport's highest-paid player for the second straight season at $61.9 million annually, placing him among the highest-compensated athletes across all major North American professional sports. New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger ranks second at $42.5 million, followed by Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler and Mets third baseman Bo Bichette, who are tied at $42 million. Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. sits fifth at $40.2 million, just ahead of Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge at $40 million.

Across sports, the top of the market is converging. Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott carries an average annual value of approximately $60 million in the NFL, while Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry earns $59.6 million in the NBA this season, putting all three leagues within a narrow range at the very top of the pay scale.

The broader salary picture, however, differs considerably by sport. The NBA's average salary for roster players sits just under $14 million during the 2025-26 season, driven by smaller rosters that concentrate league revenue among fewer players. The NFL average was approximately $3.2 million in 2025, reflecting the league's significantly larger rosters. MLB's $5.34 million average falls between the two, though roster sizes in baseball and football are substantially larger than in basketball.

The Los Angeles Dodgers ranked second in MLB payroll at $316.6 million, down slightly from $319.5 million last year. Their figure would rise to $395.2 million without present-value discounting applied to deferred contracts for nine players.

MLB's average salary has grown 28 percent under the current five-year collective bargaining agreement, which expires in December, an average annual increase of 5.6%. Six clubs carried payrolls above $250 million, up from four a year ago, while eight teams fell below $100 million, an increase from five.

The Detroit Tigers posted the largest year-over-year spending increase at $64.2 million, reaching $206.7 million after signing pitcher Framber Valdez and giving a significant raise to ace Tarik Skubal through arbitration. The Minnesota Twins recorded the steepest decline, slashing $46.3 million from its Opening Day payroll to settle at $96.5 million.

The Cleveland Guardians were the MLB's lowest-spending team at $62.3 million, less than one-fifth of the Mets' total outlay.

Six months of deliberate negotiations between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Excel Sports Management produced a landmark nine-year, $140 million agreement for Konnor Griffin, with both sides ultimately finding common ground on a deal that protects the earning potential of MLB's top prospect while giving the franchise its cornerstone player.

The talks began in November at the general managers' meetings in Las Vegas, just 16 months after Pittsburgh selected Griffin ninth overall in the 2024 draft. The Pirates followed up at the winter meetings in December before resuming discussions in spring training.

Contract length proved the central sticking point as Pittsburgh sought 10 years of club control while Excel preferred eight. Nine years became the compromise, with no club options one firm condition from Griffin's camp. A 10-year deal with options would have delayed free agency until Griffin's age-30 season, a non-starter for Excel.

The Pirates might have reached $130 million on an eight-year framework, but not $140 million and the additional year unlocked the higher guarantee Griffin's representatives prioritized above all else.

Griffin's assignment to Triple-A on March 21 fueled outside speculation that Pittsburgh was applying leverage in the talks. People from both sides dismissed that reading. Even members of Griffin's camp acknowledged the demotion was the right baseball decision after he batted .171 in spring training. He responded by hitting .438 with a 1.196 OPS in 21 Triple-A plate appearances, forcing a promotion ahead of the home opener.

Timing also carried contractual significance. The agreement was not finalized until 6:30 p.m. ET Tuesday, preserving Griffin's Prospect Promotion Incentive eligibility, a potential bonus tied to Rookie of the Year and MVP voting through 2028 that a pre-debut signing would have eliminated.

The deal surpasses outfielder Bryan Reynolds' $106.75 million contract as the largest guarantee in Pirates history.