Three observations from the Pirates' 3-1 loss to the Braves here today at CoolToday Park: 

• Really refreshing to see some professional hitters added to the lineup, including Ryan O'Hearn. I've enjoyed watching him take his at-bats. It's clear that he's up there doing all he can to get on base, whether that's in the form of a hit or even a walk. He singled on a 3-0 sinker from Bryce Elder in the first inning of this one and later drew a four-pitch walk. Didn't force the issue that time. Took his base when given the opportunity. He grounded out on the first pitch of his third at-bat. Little bit more aggressive that time around. Either way, a rather productive day for a guy coming off a season in which he produced a career-best .366 on-base percentage.

• Paul Skenes walked four batters today. That sits at zero on the "big deal" meter for me. This is the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, you guys. His pitches are doing what he wants them to do, velocity looks good. As he said, "just gotta throw it in the strike zone, it's pretty simple." He'll be just fine for the upcoming World Baseball Classic and for the 2026 season. You just want to see him competing at a high level and staying healthy this March. 

• It's encouraging to see Oneil Cruz simply hitting the ball hard on the ground away from defenders. Resulted in two hits here today. He has natural power. Doesn't need to force it. Just try to hit the ball hard on the ground or in the gaps. The home runs will come.