Marcell Ozuna has agreed to a one-year contract worth $12 million with the Pittsburgh Pirates, multiple media sources confirmed Monday. This Marcell Ozuna Pirates contract is subject to a physical exam before it becomes official.
Details of the Contract Offer
The deal guarantees Ozuna $10.5 million for the 2026 season, while including a mutual option for 2027 valued at $16 million. If the option is declined, there is a $1.5 million buyout payout. This agreement reflects the Pirates’ effort to strengthen their lineup after struggling last year.
Ozuna’s Career and Recent Performance
At 35 years old, Ozuna brings veteran presence as both an outfielder and designated hitter. Last season with the Atlanta Braves, he hit .232 with 21 home runs and 68 RBIs over 145 games, a decline from his 2024 performance when he batted .302 with 39 homers and 104 RBIs through 162 games. Throughout his career, Ozuna has played for the Miami Marlins, St. Louis Cardinals, and Atlanta Braves, compiling a .269 batting average, 296 home runs, 948 RBIs, and 1,627 hits in 1,614 games.
Impact on the Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates had the lowest home run total in the majors last season with 117 homers, compared to the St. Louis Cardinals’ 148 home runs, the second-lowest in MLB. Adding a two-time Silver Slugger and former Gold Glove winner like Ozuna could help boost the team’s offensive firepower going forward.
