Oneil Cruz of the Pittsburgh Pirates has shown strong offensive performance with 4 home runs and a .292 batting average, but has struggled defensively in center field. Fans were surveyed on where he should play moving forward.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - APRIL 10: Oneil Cruz #15 of the Pittsburgh Pirates makes a diving catch against the Chicago Cubs during the fourth inning at Wrigley Field on April 10, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Pirates fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
This week’s question we asked you where Oneil Cruz should be playing for the Pirates. He has had a solid start at the plate with 4 home runs, 12 RBIs and .292 batting average but he has struggled defensively at center field with multiple errors. So we asked the readers where he should be playing and this was this week’s results.
So there you have it 42% of you guys believe Cruz should be the pirates DH instead of playing in the field. I agree with the results but the tough thing is what should the Bucs do with Marcell Ozuna then. Cruz continues top show that he is a liability at center field and a change might need to happen sooner rather than later.
As usual, don’t forget to drop by FanDuel’s MLB page. You can bet on all kinds of player props as well as the Bucs winning the Worlds Series (+5000) and also for them just making the MLB Playoffs (+164).
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Oneil Cruz has recorded 4 home runs, 12 RBIs, and a .292 batting average this season.
Oneil Cruz has struggled defensively in center field, committing multiple errors.
Fans were surveyed on their opinions regarding where Oneil Cruz should play, but specific results from the survey were not detailed.


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