Steel City Dreams: Can the Pirates Turn Potential Into Playoff Reality in 2025?
The Pittsburgh Pirates are entering the 2025 MLB season with renewed optimism, braced by a blend of strategic additions to enhance their roster depth. This includes seasoned veterans and some promising newcomers. Looking ahead, the Pirates are set to open their 2025 campaign against the Miami Marlins in a four-game series. This will be the second consecutive season the Pirates face the Marlins on Opening Day. This will also be the earliest start to a season in the franchise's history. The team's first homestand will feature a series against the New York Yankees, marking the first time the Pirates host the Yankees at PNC Park. Other notable matchups include a nine-game homestand in June against the Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies, and Miami Marlins, as well as a nine-game road trip in July against the Seattle Mariners, Kansas City Royals, and Minnesota Twins.
A big move in their offseason strategy was the signing of veteran outfielder Tommy Pham to a one-year, four million dollar contract. Pham is a veteran of the MLB and brings nearly a decade of experience across nine major league teams. In 2024, he posted a .248 batting average with nine home runs and 39 RBIs. Notably, Pham is approaching several career milestones, needing 15 hits for 1,000, 11 home runs for 150, and 30 RBIs for 500. Pham's addition is expected to provide a significant boost to both experience and offensive production.
Pham’s presence is expected to strengthen the team's lineup, complementing key players such as Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz. Reynolds, who led the team in 2024 with a .275 batting average, 24 home runs, and 88 RBIs, is ready to continue his role as a major offensive contributor. Cruz, with a .259 batting average, 21 home runs, and 76 RBIs in 2024, is expected to build upon his promising performance from last season. These two returners are expected to continue to make their mark in the MLB.
In addition to Pham, the Pirates have made other moves to strengthen their roster. They signed veteran first baseman Darick Hall to a minor league contract. Hall spent the majority of his career in the minor leagues but has shown a lot of promise with a .280 batting average and 25 home runs in the minors last season. His addition provides depth at first base and potential power off the bench. The Pirates also signed right-handed pitcher Tanner Rainey to a minor league contract. Rainey has experience as both a starter and reliever. With a career ERA of 3.75 in the majors, his versatility and experience will strengthen the Pirates' pitching depth and will provide options in the rotation and bullpen. Rainey is sure to be a significant addition.
The Pirates' 2024 season ended with a 76-86 record. This placed them fifth in the National League Central Division. Offensively, the team struggled. They were ranked 23rd in the league with a .234 batting average and 665 runs scored. The addition of Pham, along with other big signees, aims to address these offensive struggles and provide a more balanced lineup. Defensively, the Pirates will look to improve their fielding percentage and pitching consistency to better their overall performance. In terms of pitching, the Pirates posted a 4.15 ERA in 2024, being led by NL Rookie of the Year Paul Skenes. This ranked them 20th in the league. Better than their offensive ranking, but still not great. Improving their pitching depth will be extremely important for the team's success in the upcoming season.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Pittsburgh Pirates are ready for a more competitive campaign. With signings like Tommy Pham, Darick Hall, and Tanner Rainey, and a focus on addressing key areas of improvement, the team aims to build upon the lessons learned from the previous season. The combination of experienced veterans and emerging talent will allow the Pirates to make a stronger push in the NL Central Division. The Pirates have a chance to make some big moves this season and put their name back on the map.
