Pirates' Oneil Cruz blasts first spring homer in win over Astros

Game was rain-shortened to six innings at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches

Mar. 3, 2026 at 2:23am

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The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Houston Astros 5-2 in a rain-shortened, six-inning game on Saturday afternoon. Pirates prospect Oneil Cruz hit a go-ahead three-run home run off Astros reliever Jayden Murray to lead his team to victory.

Why it matters

Oneil Cruz is one of the Pirates' top prospects, and his performance in spring training games will be closely watched as he looks to earn a spot on the major league roster. The Pirates are hoping Cruz can provide a power boost to their lineup this season.

The details

In the top of the sixth inning, with the game tied 2-2, Cruz stepped up and blasted a three-run homer off Astros reliever Jayden Murray to give the Pirates a 5-2 lead. The game was then called due to rain, ending it after six innings.

  • The game took place on Saturday, March 1, 2026.
  • Cruz's go-ahead home run came in the top of the sixth inning.

The players

Oneil Cruz

A top prospect in the Pittsburgh Pirates' farm system, known for his power hitting ability.

Jayden Murray

A relief pitcher for the Houston Astros.

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What they’re saying

“Oneil Cruz is really starting to show why he's one of the top prospects in our system. That home run was a big-time swing, and it's great to see him contributing in a meaningful way this spring.”

— Ben Cherington, General Manager, Pittsburgh Pirates

What’s next

The Pirates and Astros will face off again on Sunday, March 2, 2026 at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches.

The takeaway

Oneil Cruz's performance in spring training games will be closely watched as he looks to earn a spot on the Pirates' major league roster. His power display in this game against the Astros is a positive sign for the Pirates' future.