This offseason has proven to be quite dynamic for the Pittsburgh Pirates as they continue to bolster their roster in hopes of a stronger showing in the upcoming season. While they still have work to do, the acquisitions of Ryan O’Hearn and Brandon Lowe have set a promising foundation.
The team has made attempts to sign other players, including Kyle Schwarber and Eugenio Suarez, but those efforts fell short as Suarez opted for a better deal with the Cincinnati Reds. Facing limited options in their search for a power hitter, the Pirates have reportedly struck a deal with seasoned slugger Marcell Ozuna for $12 million, pending a physical examination.
Ozuna, 35, is well-regarded for his powerful hitting, accumulating 296 career home runs across 13 years in Major League Baseball, with previous stops at the Miami Marlins, St. Louis Cardinals, and most recently, the Atlanta Braves. Although his performance dipped last season, where he recorded a batting average of .232 and a .756 OPS in 145 games, he still managed to hit 21 home runs and drive in 68 RBIs, accompanied by 113 hits and 19 doubles.
Despite not being the All-Star caliber player he once was, his ability to contribute positively to the lineup cannot be overlooked. For the Pirates, the addition of Ozuna represents a valuable opportunity to infuse power into their roster as they aim to improve their standings for the 2026 season. While the investment may seem steep for a designated hitter, the potential benefits of having a veteran presence like Ozuna could be pivotal in helping the Pirates close the gap in a competitive division.
Overall, this signing reflects the Pirates’ commitment to enhancing their lineup and addressing their needs following a challenging season. With Ozuna on board, there is optimism that the Pirates will make significant strides in their upcoming campaign.