Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training: Travis Snider Homers, Drives In Three Against Former Team

Mar 5, 2014; Dunedin, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays infielder Chris Getz (39) prepares to turn a double play as Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Travis Snider (23) slides into second at Florida Auto Exchange Park. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports

The Pittsburgh Pirates busted out 10 hits and beat the Toronto Blue Jays 6-4 on Wednesday in Dunedin, Fla.

The biggest hit came off the bat of Travis Snider in the third inning, a two-run home run against the team that drafted him. Jay Jackson got the start and the win for the Bucs, as he pitched two scoreless innings while giving up only one hit.

Snider’s homer was just the start of his day as he would go 3 for 3 with three RBIs. This day was big for him as he is battling with Jose Tabata for the starting right field job. While it appears they will platoon, Snider is making a case for himself to get more playing time, as he is hitting .444 thus far this spring while Tabata is hitting .154.

Neil Walker appeared to get going at the plate as he went 2 for 4. Other than the third and fourth innings – the Pirates pitchers gave up two runs in each – they were able to shut the Blue Jays offense down.

Pittsburgh improved to 6-1-1 in Grapefruit League action; the Pirates and Jays will meet again Thursday in Bradenton. It’s still early in spring training, but it’s good to see solid play from the players the Pirates are counting on.