The Pittsburgh Pirates want to leave behind years of failure and head into the new MLB season with the best possible roster to achieve great things. With an aggressive strategy in the winter market, the management has made multiple moves to strengthen the team and have now confirmed the arrival of a new player.
The Pirates know that with Paul Skenes on the team they can achieve great things, however, if he does not have good teammates he will not be able to make the difference that fans expect, so management continues to move to bring in the best players possible.
Pirates invest $12 million to bring Paul Skenes a companion
The Pirates have made official an agreement with veteran hitter Marcell Ozuna, who joins the team with the goal of being a help and not a hindrance.
Ozuna’s arrival is no coincidence. After a 2025 season in which Pittsburgh’s offense was singled out as one of the weakest in the league, the team is looking to protect its star pitcher and ace of the rotation, Paul Skenes.
The idea is simple, to provide “race insurance” that allows Skenes to work with more support on the scoreboard. Ozuna, known for his power, comes in to stabilize a lineup that was in dire need of an intimidating presence.
Pirates’ deal with Ozuna
The agreement with the Dominican has been closed under the following financial terms:
- Guaranteed amount: $12 million for one season.
- Salary 2026: The player is expected to earn $10.5 million this year.
- Option for 2027: The club holds a mutual option for $16 million.
- Buyout: If the option is not exercised, Ozuna will receive a $1.5 million payment.
- Status: The contract is subject to the player passing the usual physical examinations.
Ozuna is not the only new piece in the Pittsburgh puzzle. During this active offseason, the team has also added proven talent in a number of areas. Brandon Lowe, Ryan O’Hearn, Gregory Soto, Jose Urquidy and Mason Montgomery, were also added to a team that this season wants to go all the way.
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