Pittsburgh Pirates labeled one of MLB’s most improved teams this off season

The Pittsburgh Pirates didn't just stumble into this offseason's praise; they truly earned it. After years of having solid pitching but lacking a strong lineup, the front office finally tackled the issue that everyone noticed.

This change didn't go unnoticed. A former MLB general manager now considers Pittsburgh one of the most improved teams in baseball, and the reasoning is pretty clear. The roster is more cohesive.The offense has genuine support players. The pitching core, led by Paul Skenes, no longer feels like it's being wasted. This offseason wasn't loud, but it was definitely intentional. For a team that ended up near the bottom of the NL Central, that recognition is significant.

The Pirates are no longer just a team in a patient rebuild, waiting for things to fall into place. They've acted like a team that aims to compete, and that alone shifts the perspective on the 2026 season.

Paul Skenes led rotation draws praise as Pittsburgh Pirates shift focus to offense

Jim Bowden, who used to be an MLB general manager and is now a senior writer for The Athletic, wrote an article titled "Orioles head the list of MLB’s 7 most-improved teams so far this offseason" on January 5, 2026.He placed the Pittsburgh Pirates as the second most improved team, just after the Baltimore Orioles.

Bowden clarified this ranking by mentioning, "The Pirates have done an excellent job over the last several years building a strong starting rotation led by their ace Paul Skenes, but they haven’t been able to put together a competitive lineup.”

He added, “The industry, media and fans alike have been clamoring for them to add more offense for the last three seasons and they finally did it this offseason, as GM Ben Cherington has been the most aggressive he’s been since he won a World Series running the Red Sox."This evaluation was provided to assess the teams' offseason moves up to that moment, with Bowden pointing out how the Pirates tackled their offensive weaknesses by making specific acquisitions.

How Paul Skenes built a third best ERA despite finishing last

The Pittsburgh Pirates wrapped up the 2025 season with a 71-91 record, landing them in fifth place in the National League Central division. This was a drop from their 76-86 record the year before, and they missed the playoffs for the tenth year in a row.Even with the disappointing overall record, the pitching staff stood out, posting the third-best team ERA in the National League for the 2025 season.The Pirates haven't made it to the postseason since 2015, setting the stage for fans and the industry to expect some improvements. General manager Ben Cherington, who once guided the Boston Red Sox to a World Series win, has been urged to boost the offense, which was dead last in home runs and OPS in 2025.While the young pitching talent, like NL Cy Young award winner Paul Skenes, offered a solid base, the lack of offensive power held them back from being competitive.

Key offseason acquisitions to Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates took some steps to improve their lineup, aiming to boost both power and depth. On December 19, 2025, they brought in two-time All-Star second baseman Brandon Lowe from the Tampa Bay Rays through a three-team trade that also included the Houston Astros.In the trade, Pittsburgh traded right-handed pitcher Mike Burrows along with some other assets to finalize the deal. Lowe, who smashed 31 home runs, had a slugging percentage of .477, and knocked in 83 runs for the Rays in 2025, is scheduled to make $11.5 million in 2026 and has the option to become a free agent after the season.On December 23, 2025, the Pirates struck a two-year deal worth $29 million with Ryan O'Hearn, who played first base and outfield and previously was with the Baltimore Orioles and San Diego Padres.In 2025, O'Hearn had an impressive .281/.366/.437 batting line, hitting 21 doubles and 17 home runs, which was the best offensive performance of his career. ESPN reported the signing, highlighting O'Hearn's ability to play both first base and outfield.On December 4, 2025, the Pirates sent right-handed pitcher Johan Oviedo to the Boston Red Sox, getting outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia and righty Jesus Travieso in return.

Garcia, who is listed as the No. 85 prospect in baseball by MLB Pipeline, had a .340 on-base percentage in the minors during 2025, smashing 21 home runs and racking up 75 RBIs across Double A and Triple A.

Outlook for the 2026 season for Pittsburgh Pirates

With these moves, the Pirates are looking to shift from a rebuilding stage to being competitive in the NL Central. Jim Bowden pointed out in his article from January 5, 2026, that the team's offense seems to be more competitive now, thanks to GM Ben Cherington's work.The Pirates were also said to have shown interest in NL MVP runner-up Kyle Schwarber before he re-signed with the Philadelphia Phillies, which shows they're on the hunt for more offensive strength. As of early January 2026, the team is seen as a possible dark horse for the playoffs, hoping to end a drought that goes back to 2015.Also Read: Brent Rooker net worth: How much Oakland Athletics’ right fielder worth, investments and more