PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates signed Ryan O’Hearn primarily for his offensive skills, but this season he will face increased defensive responsibilities as he transitions into right field. During Spring Training, O’Hearn started five games in right field, the only position where he has appeared so far for the Pirates this year.
In a conversation with Chris Young of MLB Network, O’Hearn discussed his efforts to solidify himself as the Pirates’ everyday right fielder and adjust to the demands of that role. He is also collaborating closely with center fielder Oneil Cruz to improve their communication and coverage in the outfield.
I just think it’s time. I just think it’s spending time out there with him. Getting those reps in Spring Training. It’s still early. As much as I can get out there with him in center and me in right and we can kind of figure things out together, I think we’ll be in a good spot.
— Ryan O’Hearn, Pirates Outfielder
Ryan O’Hearn’s Defensive Experience and Challenges
Throughout his major league career, O’Hearn has predominantly been a first baseman, with 334 starts in 385 games occupying that position. He has also played extensively in the outfield, including 77 starts and 101 total appearances in right field, along with 12 starts in left field.
Early in his career, O’Hearn struggled defensively at first base, but his defensive metrics showed significant improvement in 2025. He posted positive figures including six runs saved above average (rPM), four defensive runs saved (DRS), and five outs above average (OAA). These numbers ranked him among the top first basemen in the league, placing fifth in OAA and seventh in DRS for those with at least 500 innings played at first base.
Conversely, his defensive performance in the outfield has been less successful, particularly in right field where he holds negative ratings with minus-eight rPM, minus-11 DRS, and minus-three OAA. These figures highlight the challenges he faces in adapting to a new defensive role that will require refinement and consistency.
Implications for the Pirates’ Lineup and Defense in 2026
Despite O’Hearn’s comfort and skill set being strongest at first base, the Pirates are poised to move him to right field next season as part of their roster strategy. Spencer Horwitz, the team’s primary first baseman, showed a steady but unspectacular season and remains the main option for that position. The Pirates have also added Marcell Ozuna as a designated hitter, ensuring O’Hearn’s bat stays in the lineup regardless of his defensive assignment.
With O’Hearn in right field, Bryan Reynolds is expected to shift back to left field, where he faced defensive struggles in 2024, registering minus-five in DRS and minus-nine in OAA. Alongside O’Hearn, center fielder Oneil Cruz will need to improve consistency; Cruz has been working with four-time Gold Glove winner Kevin Kiermaier during the offseason to enhance his defensive skills.
The Pirates’ plan to utilize O’Hearn’s power bat—averaging about 15 home runs and an .800 OPS over the last three seasons—alongside defensive adjustments could be vital as the team pursues playoff contention in 2026. His ability to grow into the right field position will be closely watched as the season unfolds.
“Pittsburgh checked a lot of boxes for my wife and I… it made a lot of sense.” ✅
Ryan O'Hearn discusses signing a two-year deal with the Pirates this offseason and adjustments he's made throughout his career. pic.twitter.com/QkFmMaDmYT
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) February 28, 2026
