Sports
Cumbre en el Madrid con todos sus porteros
Marca
MLBFeature
Pirates' strong start hasn't gone unnoticed by MLB executives
TL;DR
The Pittsburgh Pirates are surprising many by staying competitive in the National League Central, thanks to strategic offseason signings and trades. Their efforts have drawn praise from MLB executives.
Key points
- Pittsburgh Pirates are competitive in the National League Central.
- Ryan O’Hearn signed a two-year, $29 million contract.
- Brandon Lowe and Jake Magnum were acquired via trades.
- Lowe has seven home runs; Magnum has four stolen bases.
- MLB executives have praised the Pirates' management.
Mentioned in this story
Ryan O’HearnBrandon LoweJake MagnumTampa Bay Rays
Pittsburgh Pirates
Pirates' strong start hasn't gone unnoticed by MLB executives originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Pittsburgh Pirates have been a pleasant surprise this season, as they remain in the mix of the National League Central (2.5 games) through the first month of the season.
After seasons of never signing quality free agents, the Pirates decided to spend money this offseason, signing first baseman/outfielder Ryan O’Hearn to a two-year ($29 million) contract. O’Hearn was the Pirates' first multi-year deal signed in a decade.
The Pirates also made some shrewd trades — acquiring second baseman Brandon Lowe and outfielder Jake Magnum from the Tampa Bay Rays. Both have contributed to the lineup, with Lowe hitting .240 with a .847 OPS and seven home runs, while Magnum is hitting .274 with a .635 OPS and four stolen bases.
These moves by the Pirates and general manager Ben Cherington haven't gone unnoticed, with some MLB executives giving him their kudos.
The Pittsburgh Pirates' strong start hasn't gone unnoticed by MLB executives
In a poll of Major League Baseball executives by MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the Pirates received four votes as the most surprising team this season. One American League executive said of the Pirates' success, “That kind of turnaround in one offseason is usually not an accident.”
More News:Twins' utility man has made a great first impression
Q&A
What significant moves did the Pittsburgh Pirates make this offseason?
The Pirates signed Ryan O’Hearn to a two-year, $29 million contract and acquired Brandon Lowe and Jake Magnum through trades.
How are the Pittsburgh Pirates performing in the National League Central?
The Pirates are currently 2.5 games behind the division leaders, maintaining a competitive position in the standings.
What do MLB executives think about the Pirates' recent performance?
MLB executives have praised the Pirates' general manager Ben Cherington for the team's strong start and strategic offseason moves.
