The Pittsburgh Pirates concluded the 2025 season with a disappointing 71-91 record, placing last in the National League Central and missing the playoffs for the tenth consecutive year. Determined to improve in 2026, the Pirates have started to reshape their roster by signing All-Star Ryan O’Hearn in free agency and acquiring Brandon Lowe and Jhostynxon Garcia from the Tampa Bay Rays and Boston Red Sox, respectively. The team is actively exploring further roster enhancements, particularly targeting seasoned players such as Marcell Ozuna and Chris Bassitt to strengthen both offense and pitching.
Potential Impact of Adding Marcell Ozuna and Chris Bassitt
MLB insider Thomas Harrigan emphasized the Pirates’ interest in adding valuable players like Marcell Ozuna, Chris Bassitt, and Mark Vientos during the offseason. Pittsburgh’s pitching rotation already boasts reigning National League Cy Young winner Paul Skenes, but the addition of a reliable starter like Bassitt could solidify the staff further.
“The Pirates already have the makings of an upper-echelon rotation led by reigning National League Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes, but that doesn’t mean they couldn’t benefit from adding another starter. What the club really needs is a floor raiser, making Bassitt an ideal option. The veteran righty has made at least 30 starts in each of the past four years with a 3.77 ERA and 110 ERA+ in that span,” Harrigan wrote.
While Ryan O’Hearn was signed to fill the designated hitter role, Marcell Ozuna stands out as the top projected hitter currently available in free agency and remains an attractive option despite positional overlap. The Pirates’ lineup could benefit from Ozuna’s offensive capabilities as they seek to upgrade their batting order.
“Pittsburgh already signed Ryan O’Hearn to fill the DH role, so Ozuna isn’t a perfect positional fit, but as the top projected hitter left on the free-agent market, he’s a compelling option nonetheless for a lineup still in need of an upgrade. If the Pirates are still intent on adding a third baseman after missing out on Suárez, the trade market may be their best option. Pittsburgh has reportedly held talks with the Mets about Mark Vientos.”
Trade Talks Involving Mets Prospects Mark Vientos and Brett Baty
The Pirates are reportedly in discussions with the New York Mets concerning third baseman Mark Vientos and fellow Mets prospect Brett Baty. Insider Andrew Fillipponi from Pittsburgh’s 93.7 The Fan shared on social media that the Pirates are actively pursuing either player to bolster their infield options after their unsuccessful attempt to acquire Eduardo Suárez.
“SOURCES: The Pirates have been engaged in trade talks with the NY Mets. And are pursuing Brett Baty or Mark Vientos,” Fillipponi wrote.
“Both play 3B. But have been up rooted from that position because of Mets offseason moves. Asking price is high. But something can still get done,” he added.
Brett Baty completed the 2025 season with a .254 batting average, 18 home runs, and 54 RBIs, showcasing potential value for Pittsburgh’s rebuilding effort. These trade discussions indicate the Pirates’ commitment to deepen their infield lineup through prospects with MLB experience.
Team Building Strategy Focused on Balanced Pitching and Offense
The Pirates’ strategy this offseason combines strengthening their starting rotation and enhancing their offensive firepower. Adding Bassitt, a dependable starter with consistent innings and an effective 3.77 ERA over four years, could stabilize the pitching staff alongside Paul Skenes. Meanwhile, incorporating top free-agent hitter Marcell Ozuna or acquiring up-and-coming third basemen from the Mets addresses the lineup’s need for sustained offensive production.
Outlook for the Pirates’ 2026 Campaign
Pittsburgh’s targeted acquisitions suggest deliberate moves designed to end a decade-long playoff drought and regain competitiveness in the NL Central. If the Pirates successfully sign players like Ozuna and Bassitt and finalize trades for Mets prospects, they could build a more balanced roster capable of contending in the near future. Continued offseason efforts and strategic roster management will be critical as the team aims to improve results in the 2026 season and beyond.
SOURCES: The Pirates have been engaged in trade talks with the NY Mets. And are pursuing Brett Baty or Mark Vientos. Both play 3B. But have been up rooted from that position because of Mets offseason moves. Asking price is high. But something can still get done. pic.twitter.com/XgAOr7CznS
— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) February 4, 2026
