The Pittsburgh Pirates are eyeing a veteran slugger, but is it the right move? Katie Woo and Will Sammon from The Athletic report that the Pirates are interested in signing Marcell Ozuna, a seasoned designated hitter. This comes after the team missed out on several other high-profile bats, leaving fans wondering if Ozuna is the answer.
A Power Boost, But at What Cost?
Ozuna, 35, had a solid 2025 season with a .232 batting average, a career-high 15.9% walk rate, and 21 home runs. But here's where it gets tricky: PNC Park, the Pirates' home field, is notoriously unfriendly to right-handed power hitters. And with players like Spencer Horwitz and Ryan O'Hearn already in the mix, adding Ozuna could create a logjam in the lineup.
O'Hearn, who has been a quality first baseman, would likely be pushed to the outfield, potentially limiting the playing time of speedster Jake Mangum and top prospect Jhostynxon Garcia. This move could spark a debate among fans: is sacrificing defense for offensive power worth it?
A Lineup Conundrum
The Pirates' lineup has been one of the weakest in MLB for over a decade. Adding Ozuna, along with recent trade acquisition Brandon Lowe and top prospect Konnor Griffin, could significantly improve their hitting. However, it's hard to envision a lineup that includes both Ozuna and franchise legend Andrew McCutchen, who both primarily serve as designated hitters.
McCutchen, 39, has expressed frustration with the Pirates' front office this offseason, despite his desire to finish his career in Pittsburgh. The team has shown ambition with substantial offers to players like Josh Naylor, Kyle Schwarber, Kazuma Okamoto, and Eugenio Suárez, but they've come up empty-handed.
With pitchers and catchers reporting in a week and Opening Day just around the corner, the Pirates have some big decisions to make. Should they prioritize defense or take a swing for the fences with Ozuna? And what does the future hold for McCutchen? The Pirates' offseason saga continues, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter.
What do you think the Pirates should do? Is Ozuna the right fit, or should they explore other options? Share your thoughts in the comments!
