Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Pittsburgh Pirates’ slugger Jared Triolo has been used at multiple positions throughout his short career, winning a Gold Glove Award for utility players in 2024. With the departure of Ke’Bryan Hayes, Triolo is expected to take over as the everyday third baseman and is looking to build on a strong second half at the plate last season.

Why it matters

Triolo’s ability to step up offensively could make the Pirates an exciting team to watch in the NL Central, especially with the potential arrival of top prospects Bubba Chandfler and Paul Skenes.

The details

Triolo had a great second half at the plate last season and is predicted to continue that momentum into the 2026 season. While his defensive prowess has been the focus, his bat could surprise many, as he posted a 100 OPS+ over the second half of 2025.

Triolo won the National League Gold Glove Award for utility players in 2024.Triolo is expected to take over as the everyday third baseman for the Pirates in 2026 after the departure of Ke’Bryan Hayes.
The players

Jared Triolo

A Pittsburgh Pirates slugger who has experience playing multiple positions, including first, second, and third base, as well as shortstop and right field. He won a Gold Glove Award for utility players in 2024.

Ke’Bryan Hayes

A former Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman who was traded to the Cincinnati Reds last summer.

Bubba Chandfler

A top prospect for the Pittsburgh Pirates who could make the Opening Day roster and form a formidable one-two punch with fellow prospect Paul Skenes.

Paul Skenes

A top prospect for the Pittsburgh Pirates who could make the Opening Day roster and form a formidable one-two punch with fellow prospect Bubba Chandfler.

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What they’re saying

“Triolo is an elite defensive player with a Gold Glove on his resume as a utility player, and after Ke’Bryan Hayes was traded to the Cincinnati Reds last summer, he now lines up as Pittsburgh’s everyday third baseman. While his glove is the focus, he also quietly went from a non-factor at the plate during the first half to productive during the second half, and a 100 OPS+ over a full season might be enough to make him a 4-WAR player.”

— Joel Reuter, Bleacher Report (Bleacher Report)

The takeaway

Jared Triolo’s ability to step up offensively and build on his strong second half in 2025 could be a key factor in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ success in the 2026 season, especially with the potential arrival of top prospects Bubba Chandfler and Paul Skenes.