Overview
- The Mets opened Thursday at Citi Field with an 11-7 win over the Pirates.
- New York’s five-run first chased NL Cy Young winner Paul Skenes after two outs and 37 pitches, helped by two misplays in center by Oneil Cruz.
- Rookie Carson Benge homered for his first major-league hit as newcomers Luis Robert Jr., Marcus Semien and Jorge Polanco added key production.
- The lineup showed a more patient plan, drawing nine walks and forcing Pittsburgh to throw 192 pitches.
- Chicago claimed reliever Bryan Hudson off waivers on Friday after the Mets designated him for assignment, highlighting early bullpen churn as depth gets tested.