Here we go. New year, new expectations, new belief in how the Pirates can perform in 2024. Following a 14-win improvement a season ago, the Bucs have a chance to do damage in the National League.
The Pittsburgh Pirates begin the MLB regular season Thursday in Miami. The bullpen is deep, the lineup is the best since GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton took over entering 2020. Depth will be tested, and questions remain at first base and the starting rotation.
Ben Verlander of Fox Sports placed Pittsburgh 4th in the NL Central with an 81-81 record, and the Cincinnati Reds (88-74) and Chicago Cubs (86-76) making the playoffs.