Series Preview: Pirates open the season in Miami against the Marlins

The Pirates enter the 2024 season with a team mixed with young talent and savvy veterans. General manager Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton will hope that their combination plus potential mid-season call-ups, which could include top pitching prospect Paul Skenes, will be enough to compete for playoff contention. 

The Pirates enter the 2024 season following a 76-86 season in 2023. The club has failed to post a winning record since the 2018 season when they went 82-79. The Pirates have also failed to make the playoffs since 2015.

The Marlins, on the other hand enter the 2024 season after making the playoffs last year for the first time in a full season since 2003 when the club won their second World Series. The 84-78 Marlins were quickly disposed of by the Philadelphia Phillies in the Wild Card round in two games. Last season, these two teams met seven times with the Marlins winning five of seven matchups.

Below, Rum Bunter will preview the opening series between the Pirates and Marlins, looking at the projected pitching matchups, standout hitters to know at the plate, and more.

SERIES SCHEDULE

Thursday: Opening day is scheduled for a 4:10 first pitch. With festivities, that time may be off by a few minutes. 

Friday: Game two of the series is projected for a 7:10 first pitch. 

Saturday: Game three of the series on Saturday is another late afternoon 4:10 start. 

Sunday: The fourth and final game of the series is slated for a 1:40 p.m. first pitch. 

All four games of the series can be watched on Sportsnet Pittsburgh and can be heard on 93.7 The Fan.