Pirates Bubba Chandler shows flashes of huge potential, need for pitch control in first outing
Chandler didn’t allow a hit in 4.1 innings of work against the Cincinnati Reds for Bucs’ first win in the division.
CINCINNATI, OHIO - MARCH 31: Bubba Chandler #36 of the Pittsburgh Pirates throws a pitch against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on March 31, 2026 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Pittsburgh Pirates have created their own pitching factory of flame-throwing arms, making an impact in the majors. The team that drafted Gerrit Cole, Jameson Taillon, Tyler Glasnow, Clay Holmes, and others is ushering in a new wave of stars.
Paul Skenes leads the charge as the best pitcher in the National League, entering 2026 with his first Cy Young Award. Young pitchers Braxton Ashcraft and Carmen Mlodzinski began their careers in the bullpen but have the stuff and potential to be impactful MLB starters. None of them started the season the way Bubba Chandler did.
In more ways than just one. Baseball’s No. 11 prospect and the No.
2 player in the Pirates farm system, per MLB Pipeline, Chandler flashed his immense potential in front of 22,390 fans at Great American Ballpark on Tuesday. The fifth and final starter on the Opening Day roster to take the ball for the Bucs, Chandler delivered 4. 1 no-hit innings against the Cincinnati Reds.