Bucs Win Opener, But Temper Your Excitement

Jack Wilson's 2 out, 2 strike, bases clearing double in the 9th led the Pirates to a dramatic Opening Day win over the Cardinals. Paul Maholm pitched very well and the much-maligned Nyjer Morgan had three hits and two RBIs. The Pirates left many runners on base throughout the game and relievers Tyler Yates and John Grabow allowed the Cards to break a 2-2 tie in the 8th, so this had the feeling of an sluggish, inevitable loss. But the 4 run rally in the ninth gave the Pirates their third consecutive Opening Day win, all on the road and all featuring late rallies. And in case anyone forgot, the Pirates followed each of those previous dramatic Opening Day wins with a last place finish for the season. I would love to say that that won't happen this year, and maybe it won't. But one great win does not a great season make. Opening Days feature just as many anomalies as they do truths. CC Sabathia will end up making more great starts than not. The Rangers will not always get tremendous pitching. Adam Lind will not drive in 972 runs, obviously. He won't even lead the league. Today was just one day. The Pirates' win was just one win. It was a thrilling win, but still just one win.