2026 MLB Opening Day live updates: Scores, results, highlights including Mets vs Pirates, Dodgers vs D-Backs

The overhauled Mets’ lineup faced a difficult Opening Day assignment in Paul Skenes at Citi Field this afternoon, but they were more than equal to the task, chasing the defending NL Cy Young Award winner in the first inning as part of an 11-7 victory over the Pirates.

Skenes was pulled after giving up five runs in the opening frame. His defense didn’t help him at all, namely Oneil Cruz, who misplayed a fly ball for a three-run triple before losing a ball in the sun.

The Mets’ lineup was relentless throughout the afternoon, working deep counts while piling up nine walks and 11 hits. With Skenes leaving early, the Pirates used seven pitchers on the afternoon.

Carson Benge slugged his first major league homer in the sixth inning while going back-to-back with Francisco Alvarez.

Making his Mets debut, Freddy Peralta allowed four runs over five innings in the victory. He surrendered two homers to Brandon Lowe, who was making his Pirates debut. Ryan O’Hearn also homered in his first game for Pittsburgh.

The Mets lost their last two Opening Day games coming into today, but they are now 42-23 all-time. That’s the best mark of any franchise.