The Pittsburgh Pirates have a lot to be excited about this season. Between Paul Skenes, Konnor Griffin and all of their new additions, there are plenty of reasons to feel good about them as they prepare for the 2026 campaign.
Just ask Pirates manager Don Kelly, who has a much more talented roster this year compared to last year.
“The offseason was great. Bringing back the starting pitching depth that we have with the rotation as a foundation for us,” Kelly told MLB Network in a recent interview at spring training. “And then to be able to add to the offense this year, bringing in O’Hearn, Lowe, Mangum, Ozuna to the guys that we already have. Really excited about ’26.”
Pittsburgh has been widely praised for its offseason, which saw the organization add three former All-Stars to its lineup in Brandon Lowe, Ryan O’Hearn and Marcell Ozuna. They should give the offense a major boost after the Pirates ranked last in runs scored, home runs, OPS and other categories last season.
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That means more run support for Pittsburgh’s talented pitching staff, which is led by reigning NL Cy Young winner Paul Skenes. Skenes is arguably the best pitcher in baseball and appears poised for another dominant season.
Additionally, the Pirates also have several young stars who appear ready to break out and give the club a spark, including Konnor Griffin, Jhostynxon Garcia and Bubba Chandler.
Add it all up, and Kelly has a team that looks like a legitimate playoff contender this season.
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