Veteran slugger Marcell Ozuna has agreed to join the Pittsburgh Pirates on a one-year deal worth $12 million, a move that reshapes the team’s roster ahead of the upcoming MLB season. The agreement, announced Monday, includes a mutual option for 2027 valued at $16 million and a $1.5 million buyout, pending Ozuna’s physical exam.
At 35 years old, Ozuna is a three-time All-Star known for his powerful hitting. His arrival in Pittsburgh brings added strength to the Pirates’ lineup, reflecting the organization’s strategic effort to build a competitive roster.
Career Highlights and Recent Performance Overview
Ozuna spent the bulk of his recent career with the Atlanta Braves, where he enjoyed a productive six-year tenure. During that time, he led the National League in home runs and RBIs during the 2020 COVID-shortened season and produced consecutive impressive offensive seasons in 2023 and 2024, totaling 40 and 39 home runs respectively, along with over 100 RBIs each season.
Last season, Ozuna faced trade rumors amid the Braves’ failure to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2017. Despite speculation, he remained with Atlanta through the trade deadline, contributing a .232 batting average with 21 homers and 68 RBIs over 137 games, while playing through a right hip injury.
“I don’t want to think like, ‘What about if they sign me or not?’ I just want to play and give my best to my teammates.”
— Marcell Ozuna, Outfielder
Impact on Pirates’ Roster and Power Boost
Ozuna’s transition from the National League East to Pittsburgh represents a significant addition of power for the Pirates, who have bolstered their lineup with other notable acquisitions. The team also signed left-handed hitter Ryan O’Hearn to a two-year, $29 million contract and acquired seasoned infielder Brandon Lowe through a three-team trade involving the Rays and Astros.
Primarily serving as a designated hitter in recent seasons, Ozuna’s role on the Pirates is expected to focus on maximizing his offensive contributions, as his field participation has been limited since 2023.
Significance of Ozuna Departure for Mets and NL East Dynamics
Ozuna has historically performed well against the New York Mets, hitting .266 with 21 home runs and 91 RBIs in 151 career games. His departure from the NL East will likely come as relief to the Mets, who have struggled to contain him over the years.
With Ozuna now slated to bring his veteran leadership and power hitting to Pittsburgh, the Pirates aim to accelerate their development and contend more effectively within their division and league.
Next Steps and Expectations for the Upcoming MLB Season
As the Pirates finalize Ozuna’s contract and prepare for spring training, fans and analysts will closely watch how his presence influences the team’s performance. His veteran experience and offensive prowess could help the Pirates reshape their competitive outlook after several seasons of rebuilding.
Pending a successful physical, Ozuna’s signing marks a noteworthy moment in MLB’s ongoing player movement cycle, signaling potential shifts in team dynamics and power balance heading into the 2026 season.
Marcell Ozuna to the Pirates. $12M. Pending physical
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 9, 2026
Designated hitter Marcell Ozuna and the Pittsburgh Pirates are in agreement on a one-year, $12 million contract with a mutual option for 2027, sources tell ESPN. The deal will pay Ozuna $10.5M this year with a $16M option that has a $1.5M buyout. @JonHeyman was first on the news.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 9, 2026
