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Pittsburgh Pirates Projected 22nd: Offense Needs Major Boost

11/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Pittsburgh Pirates are projected to rank 22nd out of 30 teams in the early 2026 MLB season.
They finished the 2025 season with a 71-91 record, placing last in the NL Central, largely due to the lowest slugging percentage and fewest runs scored.
The pitching staff, led by Cy Young finalist Paul Skenes, performed well, but the Pirates need to enhance their offense through trades or free agency.
Owner Bob Nutting's willingness to increase payroll for improvements remains uncertain.
The Atlanta Braves are ranked 14th and are also concerned about their offense and potential free-agent losses.

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Story summary

The Pittsburgh Pirates are projected to rank 22nd out of 30 teams in the early 2026 MLB season.
They finished the 2025 season with a 71-91 record, placing last in the NL Central, largely due to the lowest slugging percentage and fewest runs scored.
The pitching staff, led by Cy Young finalist Paul Skenes, performed well, but the Pirates need to enhance their offense through trades or free agency.
Owner Bob Nutting's willingness to increase payroll for improvements remains uncertain.
The Atlanta Braves are ranked 14th and are also concerned about their offense and potential free-agent losses.