The Pittsburgh Pirates are actively pursuing ways to enhance their roster as they aim for a postseason return, focusing on a key free-agent addition to complement their rising star, Paul Skenes. Despite losing out on Eugene Suarez to the Cincinnati Reds’ one-year, $15 million deal, the Pirates have spotlighted Marcell Ozuna as a viable solution to reinforce their lineup and improve their playoff chances heading into 2026.
Why Marcell Ozuna Fits the Pirates’ Needs
Currently primarily serving as a designated hitter, Marcell Ozuna remains a formidable home run threat despite being limited defensively. In the 2024 season, he appeared as a DH in 137 games, after full-time DH roles in the previous two years. Although his batting average dipped to .232 with 21 home runs in 145 games for the Atlanta Braves last year, Ozuna still amassed 100 home runs across the last three seasons and totaled 272 homers in that span, demonstrating consistent power at the plate.
At 35 years old, Ozuna’s market value is expected to be comparable to Suarez’s contract, making him an appealing and potentially cost-effective option. For the Pirates, who have not reached the postseason since 2015, signing Ozuna represents a calculated gamble to boost their offensive output in a lineup that sorely needs more firepower.
How Paul Skenes and Key Players Shape the Team’s Outlook
The Pirates boast one of baseball’s most promising young pitching groups, led by standout prospect Paul Skenes. The organization is clearly focused on leveraging this talent while the core remains intact. However, the offense has struggled, averaging just 3.2 runs per nine innings in games started by Skenes, ranking poorly among major league teams.
Adding a veteran slugger like Ozuna alongside emerging talents such as Brandon Lowe, Ryan O’Hearn, Oneil Cruz, and Bryan Reynolds could significantly raise the team’s run production. This reinforcement is crucial for making a competitive push toward the playoffs this season.
Moreover, Ozuna’s contract structure holds strategic value. Should the Pirates reach the postseason, Ozuna’s experience and power could play a pivotal role. Alternatively, if playoff contention fades, he could serve as a valuable trade asset, facilitating the acquisition of prospects to support future team building.
The Pirates’ Strategy to Complete Their Roster
The offseason plan for the Pirates extends beyond adding offensive firepower. General Manager Ben Cherington has indicated a willingness to enhance both the pitching rotation and bullpen before Opening Day. While Ozuna’s addition might reduce the pool of available players for trade or free agency, Pittsburgh aims to address all critical areas of the roster.
This comprehensive approach reflects a departure from past years when offensive signings like Ozuna were mainly viewed as short-term, deadline trade pieces. Now, the organization envisions these moves as integral components of a sustained playoff push, with aggressive roster management ongoing through the offseason.
If Ozuna joins the Pirates, he would become the centerpiece of an offense built to support Skenes’ pitching prowess, potentially leading to a packed PNC Park energized by consistent postseason contention rather than isolated star-driven games.
