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Pirates Earn Home Win Over Rays in Spring Training
Mitch Keller, Bryan Reynolds, and Jhostynxon Garcia shine in preseason matchup.
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 7-4 in their Grapefruit League home opener at LECOM Park in Bradenton, Florida. Veteran pitchers Mitch Keller and Bryan Reynolds had strong performances, while newcomer Jhostynxon Garcia also impressed for the Pirates.
Why it matters
Spring training games provide an early look at how teams are shaping up before the regular season begins. Strong showings from key players like Keller and Reynolds, as well as promising newcomers like Garcia, are positive signs for the Pirates as they prepare for the 2026 campaign.
The details
Keller, a longtime Pirates pitcher, tweaked his changeup and looked sharp in his outing. Reynolds, an established outfielder, collected three hits for the Pirates. Garcia, a newer addition to the team, also had a standout performance in the win.
- The game took place on Sunday, February 23, 2026.
- It was the Pirates' home opener in Grapefruit League play.
The players
Mitch Keller
A veteran pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates who has been with the team for several seasons.
Bryan Reynolds
An established outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates who has been a key part of the team for multiple years.
Jhostynxon Garcia
A newer addition to the Pittsburgh Pirates roster who had an impressive performance in the game.
Don Kelly
The manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Tampa Bay Rays
The opposing team that the Pittsburgh Pirates faced in the Grapefruit League game.
The takeaway
The Pirates' strong performance in their home Grapefruit League opener, with contributions from veteran players and promising newcomers, suggests the team is well-positioned as they prepare for the upcoming regular season.
