Pirates Earn First Win, Defeat Mets in Extra Innings

Comeback victory marks a positive start to the season for the struggling Pittsburgh club.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:09am

The Pittsburgh Pirates secured their first win of the 2026 season, defeating the New York Mets 5-4 in extra innings on Sunday. Outfielder Ryan O'Hearn led the charge for the Pirates, recording three hits and driving in two runs, including the go-ahead single in the 10th inning that proved to be the difference.

Why it matters

The Pirates have struggled in recent years, finishing last in their division in 2025. This early season victory provides a much-needed morale boost and could be a sign that the team is headed in the right direction under new management.

The details

After the Mets took a 4-3 lead in the bottom of the 9th, the Pirates rallied to tie the game and force extra innings. In the 10th, O'Hearn delivered the go-ahead hit to give Pittsburgh the lead, which they were able to hold onto to secure the win.

  • The game was played on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
  • The Pirates earned their first win of the 2026 season.

The players

Oneil Cruz

A Pirates outfielder who celebrated the team's victory.

Jake Mangum

A Pirates outfielder who celebrated the team's victory.

Billy Cook

A Pirates outfielder who celebrated the team's victory.

Ryan O'Hearn

The Pirates outfielder who recorded three hits and drove in the go-ahead run in the 10th inning.

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What they’re saying

“This is a big win for us and a great way to start the season. The guys really battled and showed a lot of heart out there today.”

— Derek Shelton, Pirates Manager

What’s next

The Pirates will look to build on this momentum as they continue their series against the Mets on Monday.

The takeaway

The Pirates' comeback victory over the Mets provides a much-needed confidence boost for a team that has struggled in recent years. If they can build on this early success, it could signal the start of a turnaround season for the struggling franchise.