The Pittsburgh Pirates have been constantly amassing younger expertise in recent times, and after exhibiting immense promise behind the likes of Konnor Griffin and Paul Skenes, it made sense that some anticipated the crew to take a serious leap ahead in 2026.
Regardless of some promising indicators early, the crew at the moment are sitting at 57-58, giving them third place within the Nationwide League Central, and whereas they might not be contending proper now, the longer term continues to look very shiny. It’s unclear whether or not or not this crew is ready to do what it takes to show this potential into changing into a real contender, and their newest shock transfer has confused many within the group.
Marcell Ozuna Launched by the Pirates
GettyMarcell Ozuna of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
This previous winter, the Pirates did one thing that we not often see them do, and that’s purchase gamers that may assist them win now, and on condition that they’re only one sport underneath .500 after the commerce deadline, that could possibly be paying off. One participant they added was veteran outfielder Marcell Ozuna, with the crew hoping so as to add some offense to assist a pitching workers that’s change into constantly among the finest in Main League Baseball.
Nonetheless, on Wednesday, simply two days after the 2026 commerce deadline, the crew made the shock choice to half methods with Ozuna, with Mike Rodriguez reporting that he had formally been launched after showing in simply 70 video games with the group this season.
It is a transfer that has seemingly come out of nowhere for Pittsburgh, and though Ozuna has solely performed in 70 video games for the Pirates this season, he was considerably efficient, slashing .286/.327/.612 with 8 dwelling runs and 29 RBI, however clearly, the crew believed his spot was higher off being taken by a youthful participant which will have a future with the group.
Can the Pirates Push for a Put up-Season Spot in 2026?
Regardless of being underneath .500 as we transfer into August, the Pirates presently sit simply 3.5 video games again of the ultimate Wild Card spot within the Nationwide League, and on condition that the crew rank third in all of baseball in runs scored this season, they’ll seemingly proceed to push for a post-season spot even with out Ozuna.
As for the 35-year-old Ozuna, who has had his points each on and off the sphere all through his profession, he could now get the chance with a real contender, and whereas he’s not the slugger he as soon as was, in a a lot smaller position for a greater crew, he may contribute if given the fitting alternative.
Solely time will inform how issues play out, however on condition that the Pirates are in competition for a Wild Card spot within the loaded Nationwide League with out a lot assist from Ozuna, it is sensible that they’d wish to proceed giving alternatives to different gamers shifting ahead, and if they will discover their groove as a pitching workers once more, this can be a crew that has immense upside within the years to return.
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