The Pittsburgh Pirates are on the hunt for more talent, but where will they focus their efforts? After a couple of key acquisitions, the team still has its sights set on specific areas to bolster their roster. But here's where it gets controversial: Are they prioritizing the right positions? Let's dive into what General Manager Ben Cherington has revealed and what it really means for the Pirates' upcoming season.
Fresh off finalizing a two-year agreement with Ryan O'Hearn and securing Brandon Lowe via trade, the Pirates have significantly strengthened their left-handed hitting power in the middle of the lineup. These moves are undoubtedly positive, injecting some much-needed offensive punch. But are they enough?
During O'Hearn's introductory press conference, Cherington outlined the team's remaining priorities, telling reporters that the Pirates are actively seeking to add depth on the left side of the infield and will remain "opportunistic" when evaluating outfield options. According to The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Cherington also emphasized the need to replenish the pitching staff, especially considering the departures of Mike Burrows and Johan Oviedo in the Lowe and Jhostynxon Garcia trades, respectively. This is a crucial point, as pitching depth can make or break a team's chances during a long season.
The pursuit of a left-side infielder isn't exactly surprising. The Pirates were previously in contention for Japanese NPB third baseman Kazuma Okamoto before he ultimately inked a four-year deal with Toronto. They've also been linked to Eugenio Suárez, considered by many to be the second-best free agent option at third base, trailing only Alex Bregman. However, Suárez's potential asking price could prove prohibitive. And this is the part most people miss: Is Suárez really the best fit for the Pirates' long-term plans, or are there more cost-effective alternatives that could provide similar value?
If Suárez proves too expensive, the Pirates might explore a one-year deal with players like Yoán Moncada, Willi Castro, or Ramón Urías. These options represent a more budget-friendly approach, allowing the team to address other needs while still adding a capable infielder. Of course, the question remains: Can these players provide the offensive consistency and defensive reliability the Pirates desperately need?
Finding an everyday shortstop, however, presents a more significant challenge. The free-agent market is thin, with Bo Bichette being the only truly impactful option. A reunion with Isiah Kiner-Falefa seems unlikely, and the trade market has been virtually nonexistent. Realistically, the Pirates are likely looking for a short-term solution at shortstop, a "stopgap" player to bridge the gap until top prospect Konnor Griffin is ready to make his mark. Griffin, widely regarded as one of the best prospects in baseball, has already generated considerable buzz, with some speculating he could force his way onto the major league roster as early as Spring Training, despite limited experience in Double-A. Even if he needs more seasoning in the minors, Griffin is expected to contribute at some point in 2026.
In the meantime, the Pirates are projected to rely on a combination of Nick Gonzales and Jared Triolo on the left side of the infield. Gonzales, a former top-10 pick, hasn't quite lived up to expectations, posting a modest .257/.300/.375 batting line in his limited major league experience. While primarily a second baseman, he's been thrust into the shortstop role, where his defensive limitations are more apparent. Adding a third baseman would allow the Pirates to shift Triolo to shortstop, where he offers better defensive capabilities. However, Triolo's offensive output is also limited, with a .236/.320/.347 slash line over three seasons. While a strong second half earned him praise from Cherington, he's unlikely to stand in the way of a significant upgrade.
Therefore, Suárez emerges as perhaps the only clear upgrade available on the free-agent market, at least among realistic targets. Of course, a late-offseason trade could always materialize, presenting new opportunities. For example, if the Phillies were to make a serious push for Bichette, it could potentially lead to Alec Bohm becoming available via trade.
Left field doesn't appear to be a major area of concern for the Pirates. The acquisitions of Garcia and Jake Mangum via trade, coupled with O'Hearn's versatility as a corner outfielder, provide sufficient depth. Brandon Lowe also has experience in the outfield, although he's expected to primarily play second base. Jack Suwinski remains in the mix as well, further solidifying the outfield options.
When it comes to pitching, any additions are likely to be short-term, one-year deals signed late in the offseason. Paul Skenes, Mitch Keller, and Bubba Chandler are firmly entrenched in the rotation. Braxton Ashcraft is also expected to be a part of the starting five, although he primarily worked in a swing role last season. Rookies Hunter Barco and Thomas Harrington will compete for the remaining spot. Carmen Mlodzinski could also receive another opportunity as a starter, despite struggling in that role last season. The team is also hopeful that Jared Jones will return from elbow surgery by the All-Star Break.
While the Pirates possess a considerable amount of pitching talent, only Skenes and Keller are proven, reliable sources of innings. Historically, the Pirates have often signed a fifth starter to a one-year contract worth $8 million or less, typically targeting a soft-tossing left-hander who can benefit from the pitcher-friendly dimensions of PNC Park. Players like Jose Quintana, Tyler Anderson, Martín Pérez, Andrew Heaney, and Bailey Falter have all fit this profile in the past. Quintana, Anderson, Pérez, and Patrick Corbin are all potential candidates this offseason. Could this be the strategy once again?
So, what do you think, Pirates fans? Are the team's priorities aligned with what's needed to compete in the NL Central? Should they spend big on Suárez, or pursue a more economical approach? And what about Konnor Griffin – is it too much to expect him to contribute this season? Let your voice be heard in the comments below! Do you agree with the strategy? What would you do differently?
