DJ Stewart’s Transition to the Pittsburgh Pirates
Former New York Mets outfielder, DJ Stewart, known for his power-hitting capabilities, has taken a significant career step by agreeing to a minor league deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
A New Beginning in Pittsburgh
Reported first by Metsmerized’s Mike Mayer, the 31-year-old Stewart, who spent the last two seasons with the Mets, has positioned himself for a fresh start with the NL Central team. During his tenure in New York, Stewart, functioning as a part-time outfielder, participated in 132 games, exhibiting a modest performance with a .211/.329/.403 slash line, 16 home runs, and 45 RBIs. His journey with the Mets concluded when he was outrighted at the closure of the 2024 season.
Power Profile and Strategic Fit
Stewart brings a notable power profile to the table, coupled with a career 12.8% walk rate, making him an intriguing prospect for the Pirates. As a left-handed batter, he stands as a valuable asset for the Pirates, potentially forming a robust outfield platoon. With O’Neil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds secured in outfield slots for the upcoming 2025 season, Stewart will engage in Spring Training battles against other left-handed contenders like Ji-hwan Bae, Jack Suwinski, and Joshua Palacios.
Comparative Outlook: Mets vs. Pirates
Conversely, the Mets’ recent acquisition of Juan Soto has significantly bolstered their left-handed outfield options, creating a crowded scenario for Stewart. Positioned behind Soto, Stewart would have faced stiff competition from players like Jeff McNeil, Jesse Winker, and Brandon Nimmo, further compounded by his below-average defensive skills, limited speed, and a propensity for strikeouts. Given the Mets’ surplus depth in the outfield department, Stewart’s exit from the team did not come as a surprise, marking the end of his two-season stint in Queens.
Career Trajectory
Drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the first round of the 2015 MLB June Amateur Draft, Stewart commenced his professional career with the Orioles in 2018, staying with the team until 2022. Subsequently, he ventured into free agency and eventually landed a minor league deal with the New York Mets, laying the foundation for his recent transition to the Pittsburgh Pirates.
DJ Stewart’s move to the Pirates symbolizes a pivotal juncture in his career trajectory, offering him a fresh canvas to paint his baseball aspirations and contributions in a new setting. As he embraces this new chapter, Stewart’s power-hitting prowess and strategic fit within the Pirates’ lineup hold the promise of an exciting journey ahead, ripe with challenges and opportunities for growth and success.