The Pittsburgh Pirates are expressing interest in veteran designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, marking the first significant connection to the player throughout the winter. While negotiations are not imminent, this shift comes after the Pirates missed out on other prominent hitters.
Ozuna, who recently turned 35, had a mixed 2025 season with the Atlanta Braves, posting a .232 batting average along with a career-high 15.9% walk rate and 21 home runs across 592 plate appearances. His performance showed a strong start earlier in the season, though he struggled significantly in June before rebounding. While Ozuna would provide a boost to the Pirates’ lineup, his fit with the team is questionable considering PNC Park is less favorable for right-handed power hitters.
The Pirates already have designated hitters Spencer Horwitz and Ryan O’Hearn as primary options, complicating the potential integration of Ozuna into the roster. Horwitz finished the latter part of 2025 hitting impressively and seems assured an everyday role. O’Hearn, while capable of playing in the outfield corners, would face challenges if positioned in left field as it would limit playing time for other players like Jake Mangum and up-and-coming prospect Jhostynxon Garcia.
Despite the defensive concerns, there is an argument for prioritizing offensive power, especially for a team that has struggled with weak run production over the past decade. The Pirates last fielded an average offensive club back in 2014, making any potential addition like Ozuna worth considering. A lineup featuring the likes of Ozuna, O’Hearn, and franchise player Bryan Reynolds would enhance the club’s offensive potential.
A significant concern arises from the prospect of integrating both Ozuna and franchise icon Andrew McCutchen into the same team. Both players are right-handed outfielders, with McCutchen expressing frustration over the slow progression of contract talks for the upcoming season. The Pirates have welcomed McCutchen back to the team in recent years under one-year contracts, acknowledging his desire to finish his career in Pittsburgh.
The Pirates appear motivated to improve their lineup, having pursued other high-profile hitters this offseason, including Josh Naylor and Kyle Schwarber, indicating their willingness to enhance their roster as they approach the new season. With seven weeks until Opening Day and some budget room to maneuver, the team might still secure one more impactful bat, despite dwindling options. This dynamic ensures that Pittsburgh’s pursuit of offensive stability remains an intriguing storyline as the season draws nearer.