The Pittsburgh Pirates are enjoying a busy offseason, signing multiple players, the latest being Marcell Ozuna. Ozuna could provide the team with much-needed right-handed hitting power and further stabilize the lineup around ace Paul Skenes.

Ozuna and pirate The two sides agreed to a one-year, $12 million deal that includes a $16 million mutual club option for 2027 and a $1.5 million buyout. He is expected to earn $10.5 million by 2026. The deal is awaiting physical delivery.

The addition of Ozuna will bolster an offense considered one of the worst in the 2025 class and will help the Skenes improve run support. A fan on X commented:

“Paul Skenes got actual running insurance this year.”

“Did they just win the offseason?” another questioned.

“Ozuna in Pirates has a different style,” said one X user.

“Is he making $12 million a year?” another asked.

“Pittsburgh will screw up and get a wild card spot,” one person added.

“I really like Ozuna competing against Ohtani. Give it your all for Paul Skenes!” another wrote.

The Buccaneers also added Brandon Lowe, Ryan O’Hearn, Gregory Soto, Jose Urquidy and Mason Montgomery this offseason.

While Ozuna struggled last season, he emerged as one of the top sluggers in the National League in 2023 and 2024. Ozuna hit .232 with 21 runs and 68 RBIs last season with the Atlanta Braves.

Does Marcell Ozuna’s signing signal the end of the Andrew McCutchen era?

Pittsburgh Pirates Not Yet Signed Andrew McCutcheon in free agency. The signing of Marcell Ozuna could mark the end of the veteran’s tenure in Pittsburgh.

The veteran designated hitter took to social media to express his frustration with the Pirates’ inaction. They clashed with teams looking to rebuild. They have suffered a losing streak in seven consecutive seasons; this is the third time since McCutchen returned to Pittsburgh.