The Pittsburgh Pirates have dropped the lineup for their series opening game against the Detroit Tigers.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are getting ready to open a three-game series with the Detroit Tigers on the road.
This will be the final series of the 2026 season for Pittsburgh, with the team wanting to go out on a high note. While the team did miss the playoffs, the Pirates played much better this season than many people expected them to.
Pittsburgh showed a lot of fight down the stretch of the season, even with slim playoff chances. This could bode well for the future of this organization, and many players in the clubhouse have been excited about next season.
The Pirates have a nice collection of young talent across the roster, and with another year of experience, Pittsburgh could be a playoff team. But for now, the Pirates will be focusing on ending the year strong against the Tigers.
If the Pirates are able to take at least one game against Detroit, they will clinch a winning record for 2026. This could give this franchise some real momentum heading into a crucial offseason that could define the next few years.
But before 2027 is completely on their minds, the Pirates have to close out 2026. The Tigers will give them a test, but Pittsburgh has been playing well of late.
Pirates Drop Lineup Before Tigers Opener
Ahead of the series opener, the Pirates have revealed the lineup that they will send out against the Tigers. Here is how manager Don Kelly put together the order for the final opener of the year:
Leading off will be shortstop Konnor Griffin, who will be trying to finish his rookie year on a high note. Hitting second will be Brandon Lowe, who will play at second base.
Bryan Reynolds will be batting third, playing in left field for the Pirates today. Slugger Oneil Cruz bats fourth for Pittsburgh, and he will play in center field.
Behind him is Nick Gonzales, who will take on third base duties today. Ryan O'Hearn will hit sixth, being the designated hitter in this game.
Behind the plate will be Rafael Flores Jr., who will be hitting seventh. Spencer Horwitz will be batting in the eighth spot, playing at first base.
And rounding out the lineup will be Jake Mangum, playing in right field.
On the mound for Pittsburgh will be right-hander Bubba Chandler. The hard-throwing pitcher will try to slow down the Tigers' offense to set the tone for the game.
First-pitch between the Pirates and Tigers is set for 3:40 p.m. PT/ 6:40 p.m. ET.
