The Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder earned some laughs from a top basketball play

Paul Skenes is under contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates through the 2029 campaign, but that reportedly didn't stop the New York Yankees from pursuing him as early as last season.

Looking to add thump to their lineup, the Pirates acquired Brandon Lowe in a three-team trade this past offseason, and he immediately paid dividends on Opening Day against the Mets by hitting two homers in an 11-7 loss at Citi Field on Thursday afternoon.

What to watch out for with the Pittsburgh Pirates this upcoming season.

In his fourth major league plate appearance, Carson Benge connected. And when he saw the ball sail over the right-field fence, the 23-year-old New York Mets rookie couldn’t help but shout and jump for joy as he rounded first base.

The new Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman debuted his power vs. the Mets

The majesty and importance of Opening Day will never go away. It should be considered a national holiday. It’s the culmination of weeks of Spring Training, mixed with a switch flipping toward the regular season,