Don Kelly Explains 'Opener' Strategy for Pirates Pitching

Pittsburgh Pirates manager Don Kelly provided insight into the team's tactical decision to employ an opener for their recent series finale against the Atlanta Braves. Mason Montgomery was designated as the opener, with the intention for Bubba Chandler to pitch the bulk of the innings afterward.

Kelly explained that this approach was designed to strategically position Chandler against the lower part of the Braves' batting order. "We just thought it was a good opportunity to get (Montgomery) in there and have him go through the lineup and get Bubba in down towards the bottom, so when we come back through multiple times, he's not facing the top of the order," Kelly stated.

Montgomery pitched one scoreless inning before handing the ball to Chandler. Chandler subsequently pitched 5.1 innings, allowing two runs. Kelly praised Chandler's performance, noting it was "the best he's thrown the ball" and highlighting his efficiency and improved fastball command. Chandler himself acknowledged the difference in pitching from the bullpen but felt his outing was "pretty good" overall.