Cruz's Rough Start: Pirates' CF Needs Work

It's March 26th.

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Pittsburgh Pirates Center Fielder O'Neill Cruz had a rough opening day against the New

York Mets.

In the bottom of the first inning at City Field, he misplayed two flyballs, helping the

Mets score four runs to grab a five-to-two lead.

The first mistake came on a ball from Brett Vady.

Cruz positioned too close to the infield and is sailed over his head for a base's clearing

triple.

Then he lost another flyball in the sun.

Without sunglasses, turning it into a double that brought in another run.

NBA star Joel Mbied of the Philadelphia 76ers jumped on social media with a jab, suggesting

Cruz switched to designated hitter.

The miscues also ended starter.

Paul Schienz's day early charged with all five runs.

Cruz posted some of the worst defensive numbers among centerfielders last season.

His first full year thereafter moving from shortstop.

That show he caused his team plenty of runs with misreads and poor routes.

He spent the offseason training with four-time gold glove winner Kevin Kiermeyer to sharpen

his skills.

With Cruz's speed and cannon arm, better technique could make him a solid outfielder as the Pirates

push forward.