The Marlins hit left-handed pitchers very well last season, and while they faced Martín Pérez just once, scouting the veteran southpaw won't be a challenge for the home team. I feel confident the Fins will get out to an early advantage and pile on in the later innings against a Pirates bullpen that posted a 4.27 ERA last season.

A.J. Puk pitched well in Spring Training, but he's an unknown commodity as a starting pitcher. Will he feel comfortable tomorrow? The Pirates had success against him in two of his appearances last year and proved they will be competitive in this series in Thursday's opener. If he exits early, the depth of Miami's bullpen (4.37 ERA in 2023) will be put to the test after yesterday's game went to extra innings.

Read my full game prediction here: https://winnersandwhiners.com/games/mlb/3-29-2024/pittsburgh-pirates-vs-miami-marlins-prediction-457/