After 10 years without a playoff appearance and just one winning season during that time, things are finally looking up for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Pirates are flying high after sweeping the Baltimore Orioles for the first time ever over the weekend, extending their winning streak to an MLB-best five games. They’re 6-3 and second in the NL Central, just one game behind the Milwaukee Brewers, who are tied for the best record in baseball.

October is still a long way away, but Pittsburgh’s hot start seems legit. Their offense looks dramatically improved, they’re pitching well and their Pythagorean Record is also 6-3, suggesting they’re for real.

With their young stars blossoming and new veterans making an immediate impact, MLB Network’s Eduardo Perez believes the Pirates are ready to contend.

 

Raise the Jolly Roger, hoist the cone, sweep the O’s. It was a fun weekend in Pittsburgh 🏴‍☠️🧹@Pirates | #LetsGoBucs
🔗 https://t.co/iXax8hx4iO pic.twitter.com/bnveer1hty

— MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM (@MLBNetworkRadio) April 6, 2026

 

“The power is real, and that’s what the Buccos wanted to address,” Perez said on MLB Network Radio on Monday. “Fun times right now in Pittsburgh, I think. And I think this is their window. This is their time. We’re about to see if they can seize it.”

So far, they already are. Their big offseason moves are paying off and they aggressively promoted Konnor Griffin after just five games at Triple-A. 

After seven straight losing seasons and a lengthy rebuild, it’s time to start winning in Pittsburgh, especially with the clock potentially ticking on Paul Skenes. The Pirates have taken the steps to do that, and so far, they’re seeing the results.

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