Pirates rookie Chandler makes MLB debut pitching four innings to earn a save, a first in history.

Bubba Chandler, the second-ranked pitching prospect in the Pittsburgh Pirates farm system, made his major league debut today (23rd) and successfully earned a save, becoming the first pitcher ever to throw a full four innings in his debut and record a save.

In today’s game against the Colorado Rockies, Chandler came in to pitch in the 6th inning replacing Braxton Ashcraft. With a background as a starter, he finished the entire game, pitching 4 innings with only 2 hits allowed and no runs, striking out 3 batters, including his first career strikeout with a 100 mph fastball.

After this outing, Chandler pitched 4 scoreless innings in relief and earned a save, making him the first pitcher in MLB history to throw 4 scoreless innings and secure a save in his debut game.

Thanks to Chandler’s excellent relief performance, the Pirates shut out the Rockies 9-0. Starter Ashcraft pitched 5 innings with 6 strikeouts, giving up just 1 hit and no runs, earning his fourth win of the season.

Regarding the game, Chandler said in a postgame interview: “My mind was blank during the first inning, but I could hear the crowd roaring.”

Notably, Chandler admitted he expected to reach the majors sooner and felt somewhat frustrated that the team hadn’t promoted him earlier. He said, “You can complain and be unhappy all you want, but in the end, I’m standing on a major league field — something not many 22-year-olds get to do.”