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Oneil Cruz’s improved approach against left-handed pitching could be a key factor in the Pirates’ quest to end their postseason drought.Today in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Oneil Cruz has turned his weakness against left-handed pitching into a strength, going 7-for-11 with three home runs and six RBIs in the first nine games of the season. This improved approach against lefties could make it more difficult for MLB pitchers to scout Cruz and provide more run support for the Pirates’ pitching staff.
Why it matters
The Pirates have not made the playoffs since 2015, and Cruz’s improved performance against left-handed pitching could be a key factor in ending that drought. Additionally, Cruz’s newfound success against lefties will make him a more well-rounded and dangerous hitter, posing a greater challenge for opposing pitchers.
The details
After going 11-for-108 (.102) with one homer and eight RBIs against lefties last season, Cruz is 7-for-11 with three homers and six RBIs through the first nine games this year. During Sunday’s 8-2 victory against the Baltimore Orioles, Cruz hit a 415-foot home run off left-hander Cade Povich.
In the 2022 season, Cruz struggled against left-handed pitching, going 11-for-108 (.102) with one homer and eight RBIs.Through the first nine games of the 2023 season, Cruz is 7-for-11 with three homers and six RBIs against left-handed pitchers.
The players
Oneil Cruz
A 27-year-old center fielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates who has turned his weakness against left-handed pitching into a strength this season.
Paul Skenes
A pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates who could benefit from the increased run support provided by Cruz’s improved performance against left-handed pitching.
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What they’re saying
“’Cruz has turned what was once his kryptonite into a superpower, as the Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder is thriving against left-handed pitching.’”
— Kevin Gorman, Writer
“’The work I did during the offseason is showing up. I feel like I’m in a really good spot against lefties right now.’”
— Oneil Cruz
What’s next
The Pirates will look to continue to capitalize on Cruz’s improved performance against left-handed pitching as they aim to end their postseason drought.
The takeaway
Oneil Cruz’s newfound success against left-handed pitching could be a significant factor in the Pirates’ quest to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2015, while also posing a greater challenge for opposing pitchers across Major League Baseball.