Small Ball - Daily Baseball Recaps
Achievements All Teams
Pittsburgh Pirates

Pittsburgh Pirates News & Updates

Pittsburgh Pirates Headlines

The Pittsburgh Pirates are entering the 2026 season with the potential for their best record in nearly a decade, underscored by the presence of Paul Skenes and top prospect Konnor Griffin. With ESPN projecting 83 wins, the excitement surrounding the team is palpable. Fans are eager to see if Skenes can continue his dominance after winning the NL Cy Young Award, and if Griffin, who turns 20 in April, can make an immediate impact comparable to Skenes’ debut at 22.

In camp discussions, the return of A.J. Burnett is generating buzz. The former ace brings not just experience but also an edge that the Pirates could greatly benefit from during their transition season. As the team lays the groundwork, the camaraderie developing among players is crucial. A strong bond could be the difference between a competitive season and another disappointing finish.

However, there are concerns on the horizon. The recent arbitration ruling favoring Tarik Skubal highlights the financial stakes for Skenes, signaling that his future contract negotiations may become a focal point. For now, he remains the cornerstone of this squad. Manager Don Kelly also provided an encouraging update on Jared Jones, who is expected to return around late May, adding depth to the pitching staff that is already bolstered by offseason acquisitions.

As the Pirates gear up for Spring Training, all eyes will be on how these new pieces fit together. Consistency from the offense remains key, especially with the addition of Ryan O'Hearn and Gregory Soto. If the lineup can produce alongside Skenes, Pittsburgh might just be on its way to breaking the playoff drought.

Share on X Text
Sources
Pirates could have best season in nearly a decade
Bucsdugout
Pirates could have best season in nearly a decade
The Pittsburgh Pirates are going into the season with a lot of hype as Paul Skenes and Konnor Griffin highlight the team’s bright future. ESPN is projecting that the Pirates should win close to 80 games this season, which would mark the team’s best record since the 2018 campaign. “The starting rotation should rank in […]
 What would make you check out on the Pirates 2026 season early?
Bucsdugout
What would make you check out on the Pirates 2026 season early?
Baseball is finally back as Spring Training has just begun this week and teams are reporting in to lay the groundwork for the upcoming season. In a lot of ways this is a new look Pittsburgh Pirates team on many levels. Even with the new look however I fear there may be some factors that […]
 Batman returns: Burnett brings edge, wisdom to Pirates camp
MLB.com
Batman returns: Burnett brings edge, wisdom to Pirates camp
BRADENTON, Fla. -- More than a decade has passed since the bat signal first appeared on the Pittsburgh skyline to summon the Pirates’ own Caped Crusader. On Sunday morning, the baseball superhero it once represented decided that 11 years was enough time away. “I'm not here to change anybody; I'm
 Beyond the buzz, a bond is forming in Bradenton
MLB.com
Beyond the buzz, a bond is forming in Bradenton
BRADENTON, Fla. -- In a camp fueled by recent additions and buzz, perhaps the most telling sign of commitment to results lies hidden among the flurry of activity. Talk to any athlete, and they’ll tell you Spring Training is a time to knock off the offseason rust, re-embrace routines and
 Tarik Skubal arbitration ruling affects Paul Skenes inevitably, but not immediately
Rumbunter
Tarik Skubal arbitration ruling affects Paul Skenes inevitably, but not immediately
The Pittsburgh Pirates have a new precedent to be fearful of, as two-time Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal just set the market for Paul Skenes in arbitration.
 Don Kelly gives Pirates fans encouraging timeline on Jared Jones return
Rumbunter
Don Kelly gives Pirates fans encouraging timeline on Jared Jones return
Pirates manager Don Kelly says Jared Jones is on track to return from injury in late May to early June.
Never miss a Pittsburgh Pirates update

Get the Pittsburgh Pirates digest delivered free every morning.