Pirates Destroy Manatees In Spring Training Opener

In the first organized competitive contest of 2011, the Pirates demolished the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota on Friday, 21-1. 

Steve Pearce led the Buccos with two doubles, Garrett Atkins blasted a 3-run homerun and a double, and Brian Friday had a solo homerun. 

Bucco left-hander Aaron Thompson had an impressive first inning, striking out the side on only 11 pitches.  Mike Crotta also struck out the side in his one inning of work.

Tomorrow, the Pirates face their first Major League competition of this young season as they travel to Port Charlotte, Fla., home of the Rays, for a 1:05 PM start.  Both Charlie Morton and Brad Lincoln, battling for the fifth spot in the pitching rotation come opening day, are expected to be the first pitchers on the mound on Saturday.

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!