ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – Former Atlanta Braves slugger Marcell Ozuna has agreed to a deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates, according to multiple reports.
Ozuna’s deal is worth $12 million for one year, pending a physical. He will make $10.5 million in 2026 and has a mutual club option for $16 million in 2027 with a $1.5 million buyout.
The deal was first reported by MLB insider Mike Rodriguez.
Ozuna, 35, battled a hip injury last season, when he hit .232 with 21 home runs and 68 RBIs before hitting free agency at season’s end. The two previous seasons, however, Ozuna had racked up 79 home runs, proving to be a powerful asset in Atlanta’s lineup.
The Pirates have missed the postseason in 10 consecutive seasons and, in addition to Ozuna, have brought in All-Star second baseman Brandon Lowe and signed All-Star first baseman and outfielder Ryan O’Hearn. Ozuna’s right-handed bat brings balance to a lineup dominated by left-handers (Lowe, O’Hearn and outfielder Oneil Cruz).
Ozuna’s signing also signals the end of longtime cornerstone Andrew McCutchen’s tenure in Pittsburgh. McCutchen, 39, remains unsigned after hitting .239 with 13 home runs in 2025 while serving primarily as the club’s designated hitter.
The Pirates begin spring training when pitchers and catchers report to their complex in Bradenton, Florida, later this week.
The Braves reported to North Port on Monday, and workouts begin Tuesday.
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