Cole Tucker made a big first impression in his MLB debut for the Pirates. The 22-year-old shortstop, a former first-round pick, stepped to the plate in the fifth inning of a tied game against the Giants. After falling behind 0-2 in the count, he launched a go-ahead two-run homer for his first major league hit. His family was in the stands and watched it all go down. His dad celebrated by high-fiving fans around him, and Cole flashed a signal to the stands that his dad returned.
The crowd in Pittsburgh fed off the moment. A fan held up a “Young King Cole” sign, and the stadium chanted for a curtain call. Tucker stepped out for it, clearly soaking in the moment. His parents were emotional as they watched him embrace the spotlight. It was a strong start for a young player who had waited for his moment, delivering when the team needed it.