Pirates Open Season Against Marlins With Gonzales Injury

The Pittsburgh Pirates kicked off their 2025 season on March 27, facing off against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot Park in Miami, Florida. The game began at 4:10 p.m. ET, with the Pirates looking to make a strong start against a Marlins team that struggled last season.

As the game unfolded, Pirates second baseman Nick Gonzales made headlines when he hit a two-run home run in the top of the sixth inning, pushing the Pirates ahead with a 4-1 lead. However, the excitement was short-lived as Gonzales appeared to injure himself while rounding the bases, limping noticeably after his home run trot. The Pirates quickly removed him from the game, replacing him with Adam Frazier at second base.

The Pirates later confirmed that Gonzales was taken out due to recurrent left ankle discomfort. His status is currently day-to-day as he undergoes examination and treatment from the Pirates' medical staff. "INF Nick Gonzales was removed from today’s game due to recurrent left ankle discomfort," the team announced via Twitter.

Gonzales, a promising young talent, had a solid campaign in 2024, slashing .270/.311/.398 with 97 hits, including 19 doubles and seven home runs, while driving in 49 runs over 94 games. The 24-year-old from Vail, Arizona, has shown great potential since being drafted seventh overall by the Pirates in the 2020 MLB Draft, signing for $5.4 million. He had previously played for New Mexico State, where he led Division 1 with a .432 batting average in 2019.

In addition to Gonzales' injury, the Pirates' performance on Opening Day is crucial for setting the tone for the season. Last year, Pittsburgh finished with a record of 76-86, while the Marlins struggled with a 62-100 record. The Marlins had a tough home record of 30-51 and were known for their low slugging percentage of .378 last season, averaging just 2.6 extra-base hits per game.

The Pirates, who batted .234 as a team last season with a .672 OPS, are looking to improve their offensive output this year. With Paul Skenes on the mound for the Pirates, the team hopes to capitalize on the Marlins' weaknesses and start the season with a win.

After the four-game series in Miami, the Pirates will stay in Florida for a three-game set against the Tampa Bay Rays before returning home to PNC Park to face the New York Yankees. The home opener on April 4, 2025, will mark a historic moment as it will be the first time the Yankees have been the opponent for the Pirates' home opener.

As the season progresses, the Pirates will be looking to build on their previous year's performance and make a push for the playoffs. Fans are hopeful that players like Gonzales can stay healthy and contribute significantly to the team's success. With a mix of young talent and experienced players, the Pirates are aiming to turn their fortunes around this season.

The excitement surrounding the Pirates' season opener is palpable, and fans are eager to see how the team will perform in the coming weeks. With Gonzales' injury being a concern, the Pirates will need to rally together and find ways to overcome early-season challenges.

Stay tuned for updates on Gonzales' condition and the Pirates' performance as they continue their season in Miami and beyond. The Pirates are determined to make their mark in 2025, and every game counts as they strive for a better record and a chance at postseason play.