The Pittsburgh Pirates reportedly signed veteran slugger Marcell Ozuna to a one-year deal, and the team is likely not done.
Ozuna is expected to be the Pirates’ designated hitter and add some more pop to the lineup. Although Pittsburgh has been active this offseason, the Pirates may still have more moves to make.
Pirates insider Jason Mackey of The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette believes Pittsburgh is still searching for an upgrade at third base, as the team wants to add another bat.
“The move gives the Pirates a proven bat, though it likely spells the end of Andrew McCutchen’s second stint with the Pirates,” Mackey wrote in an article published on Monday. “They’re also not done, as general manager Ben Cherington continues to search for additions at third base and the starting rotation. …
“Signing Ozuna does not conclude the Pirates’ offseason. Far from it. They’re actively trying to do more, including an upgrade at third base. Isaac Paredes of the Houston Astros was one target. However, the Ozuna deal likely takes them out of the running there.”
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Mackey links the Pirates to the likes of Mark Vientos, Brett Baty, and Josh Jung as potential trade candidates for Pittsburgh to fill the third base role.
“A change in strategy will likely lead them toward more controllable players,” Mackey added. “In other words, a trade for someone who’s either early in the arbitration process or has not yet reached it. …
“Some of the names that fit that category include Mark Vientos and Brett Baty of the Mets, as well as Josh Jung from the Rangers.”
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The Pirates are looking to bolster their roster and end their playoff drought. Pittsburgh will open its 2026 MLB season on March 26 on the road against the New York Mets.
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