Pirates Prospects Power Victory Over Cardinals

Shortstop Konnor Griffin and right fielder Jhostynxon Garcia hit home runs to lead Pittsburgh to a 6-1 win.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Pittsburgh Pirates' top prospects shined in their 6-1 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals in Spring Training. Shortstop Konnor Griffin hit a two-run home run, and right fielder Jhostynxon Garcia added a solo shot. The Pirates' young pitching staff also dominated, with starter Hunter Barco, reliever Antwone Kelly, and closers Khristian Curtis and Brandon Neeck combining to allow just one unearned run on one hit.

Why it matters

The Pirates' win showcases the depth of their farm system, with several highly touted prospects making an impact. This performance could help solidify roster spots and playing time for these young players as the team looks to build for the future.

The details

Griffin's two-run homer in the first inning got the Pirates on the board early. Third baseman Jared Triolo then drove in two more runs with a single in the second. Garcia's solo shot in the fourth extended the lead to 5-0. First baseman Callan Moss added an RBI double in the seventh to make it 6-1. On the mound, Barco, Kelly, Curtis, and Neeck combined to allow just one unearned run on one hit, striking out 10 Cardinals batters.

  • The game took place on March 1, 2026 at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium in Jupiter, Florida.
  • The Pirates had previously defeated the Houston Astros 6-1 on February 28, 2026 at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach, Florida.

The players

Konnor Griffin

The Pirates' consensus top prospect, who hit a two-run home run to get the team on the board early.

Jhostynxon Garcia

The Pirates' right fielder, who hit a solo home run to extend the team's lead.

Hunter Barco

The Pirates' left-handed pitcher who made the start, allowing just two walks and striking out three over three innings.

Antwone Kelly

The Pirates' right-handed pitcher who came in relief, giving up an unearned run over three innings with two strikeouts.

Khristian Curtis

The Pirates' right-handed pitcher who got five outs with three strikeouts.

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What they’re saying

“Jhostynxon Garcia bomb off JoJo Romero 💣 needs to break camp HR #LetsGoBucs”

— Tim Kanak (Twitter)

What’s next

The Pirates will continue their Grapefruit League schedule, looking to build on this victory over their divisional rival Cardinals as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season.

The takeaway

The Pirates' young prospects are making a strong case for roster spots and playing time, showcasing the depth and talent in the team's farm system. This performance could be a sign of good things to come for the Pirates as they look to build a contender for the future.