ESPN’s Jeff Passan has recognized the Pittsburgh Pirates as one of the winners of this MLB offseason, highlighting significant acquisitions that mark a turning point for the franchise.
Offseason Acquisitions
The Pirates have been quite active during the offseason, making key roster changes, including the acquisition of second baseman Brandon Lowe through a trade and the signing of first baseman Ryan O’Hearn to a two-year deal valued at $29 million. This is notable for a franchise that hasn’t signed a multi-year free agent position player since Ivan Nova a decade ago.
Addressing Weaknesses
These additions are particularly aimed at resolving the team’s struggles against right-handed pitching, an issue that plagued them during the 2025 season. Pittsburgh ranked 29th in the league for weighted runs created plus (wRC+) against right-handers, and finished last in isolated power (ISO). The integrated power of Lowe and O’Hearn is projected to enhance the Pirates’ offensive capabilities, especially in generating run support for their pitching staff.
Projected Impact
Brandon Lowe, acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays, had a solid performance against right-handed pitchers in 2025, boasting a wRC+ of 114 and hitting 26 out of 31 home runs against them. Ryan O’Hearn also had a robust showing, hitting .281 with 14 home runs in 377 at-bats against righties. Their presence is expected to transform the lineup, which will feature multiple hitters with a strikeout rate around or below 20% against right-handed pitching.
Future Aspirations
In addition to Lowe and O’Hearn, the Pirates have bolstered their roster with additional signings, including left-handed reliever Gregory Soto and rising young talents like Mason Montgomery and Jhostynxon Garcia, the latter being a promising outfielder acquired from Boston. This offseason has not only improved the Pirates’ hitting against righties but has also added depth and upside across the roster.
As a result of these significant offseason changes, oddsmakers have adjusted the Pirates’ projected win total for the upcoming season to 75.5, suggesting a potential improvement from the previous year. This shift comes as the franchise approaches a $100 million payroll for the first time in its history, marking a notable change in its spending habits and strategic direction.
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