The Pirates face a quiet but real deadline, with Bucs On Deck flagging today as the last day the club can make Brandon Lowe a qualifying offer as injured players return and the roster picture takes shape.
ESPN ranks the Pirates ninth in their early 2026 power rankings, projecting an 82-80 record after they dramatically improved their run-scoring last season. The team's young hitters like Konnor Griffin and Esmerlyn Valdez show promise, while their pitching rotation featuring Paul Skenes could be formidable. Retaining Brandon Lowe and addressing defensive weaknesses are crucial to Pittsburgh's postseason hopes.
The Desert Dogs face a must-win stretch with seven games remaining in their playoff push. Prospect Wyatt Sanford has emerged as a bright spot, hitting over .290 with improved plate discipline and consistent multi-hit performances. Meanwhile, several Pirates prospects have struggled to find their footing in the fall league.
The Pirates face roster decisions as injured players return, with Brandon Lowe's qualifying offer deadline today. The 2026 Gold Glove winners were announced across both leagues. Several teams made moves to shed payroll, including the Padres releasing three players and the Cardinals declining Ryne Stanek's option.
Locked On Pirates: The Pirates outlasted the Giants in a chaotic 13-12 walk-off victory, extending their winning streak to three games. Pittsburgh's offense was relentless but unconventional, they racked up 19 hits with just two extra-base hits, including a stunning nine-run third inning built almost entirely on singles and walks. Despite starter Paul Skeens struggling early and the bullpen nearly blowing a comfortable lead, an error in the ninth inning allowed the Pirates to escape with an improbable win.
The Pirates face critical roster decisions as free agency opens, particularly regarding star players who could depart. Losing Brandon Lowe's power production would create a significant offensive gap that free agent signings alone might not fill. Pittsburgh may need to explore trades alongside their free agent strategy to maintain competitiveness and prevent a scoring decline.
The Pirates may have found unexpected trade value in pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski despite his uncertain role in their future rotation. With years of team control ahead and a modest salary, he could attract interest from contenders seeking affordable pitching depth. The article explores whether Pittsburgh should explore deals that might net them a controllable hitter in return.
The Pirates are dealing with several key injuries heading into mid-June, with outfielder Oneil Cruz sidelined until mid-July after fracturing bones in his left hand during a slide. Shortstop Konnor Griffin is progressing through his forearm strain recovery and should return by late June, while pitcher Wilber Dotel just landed on the injured list with a lat strain.
The Pirates claimed outfielder Akil Baddoo off waivers from Milwaukee while losing pitcher Isaac Mattson to Seattle. Baddoo, a former Tigers prospect who showed promise early in his career, has battled injuries recently but adds depth to Pittsburgh's outfield depth chart. Mattson, a local product who pitched well in 2025, struggled this past season before being claimed on waivers.
The Pirates extended a qualifying offer to their standout second baseman after he delivered an exceptional first season in Pittsburgh, combining elite defense with 35 home runs and career-best production. His strong performance helped spark the team's first winning season in years while establishing himself as a clubhouse leader. He'll now decide whether to accept or test free agency as a 32-year-old entering the prime of his market value.
Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes returned to Japan for his second consecutive USO tour, visiting military bases to connect with service members and their families. Accompanied by girlfriend Livvy Dunne, he participated in baseball clinics, shared meals, and had genuine conversations that left observers impressed by his authenticity and interest in others' stories.
MLB Trade Rumors projects the Pirates as a landing spot for four free agents this offseason. Re-signing Brandon Lowe remains the top priority, with predictions of a three-year deal around $69 million, well above Pittsburgh's historical spending. If Lowe departs, the team may pursue infielder J.P. Crawford as a backup option, while also targeting bullpen and rotation upgrades.
Pittsburgh acquired outfielder Akil Baddoo from Milwaukee on waivers after he failed to appear in any games for the Brewers this season. The 28-year-old showed promise during his 2021 rookie year with Detroit but has struggled to maintain that form since. The Pirates also activated pitcher Mitch Keller and catcher Endy Rodríguez from the injured list.
Pittsburgh offered second baseman Brandon Lowe a one-year deal worth $23.15 million, but he's expected to decline and test free agency. The 32-year-old had an excellent first season with the Pirates and projects to land a multi-year contract worth at least $20 million annually. If he leaves, Pittsburgh gets a compensatory draft pick whose value depends on his new deal's size.
Seattle grabbed relief pitcher Isaac Mattson off waivers after Pittsburgh gave up on him. The right-hander had a strong 2025 season with a 2.45 ERA across 44 appearances, but struggled this year with injuries and inconsistency, finishing with a 5.35 ERA. The Mariners hope to help the veteran recapture his earlier form in their bullpen.
The Pirates aim to retain Brandon Lowe after his breakout 2026 season, but if he signs elsewhere, they have several backup options. Jazz Chisholm Jr. offers youth and speed despite a down year, while Gleyber Torres provides right-handed hitting when healthy. Luis Arraez brings elite batting average, and Mauricio Dubón had a productive season in Atlanta.
The Pirates extended a qualifying offer to second baseman Brandon Lowe, the team announced on Monday. Lowe remains a free agent and has until Nov.