Pirates Ready for a Jaw-Dropping Start with Tommy Pham
The Pittsburgh Pirates have been gearing up for an exciting season ahead, with the recent addition of Tommy Pham solidifying their projected Opening Day lineup. The final puzzle piece seems to have fallen into place, setting the stage for an offensive powerhouse that promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Let’s delve into how the Pirates’ lineup is shaping up for the upcoming season.
Andrew McCutchen: DH
Leading off for the Pirates is the iconic Andrew McCutchen, a cornerstone of the franchise who recently inked his third consecutive one-year deal with Pittsburgh. Despite being 38 years old, McCutchen continues to showcase his prowess at the plate, particularly when positioned at the top of the lineup.
In the leadoff spot last season, McCutchen boasted an impressive OPS of .780, tallying 15 home runs and 35 RBIs. His wRC+ stood at 117, complemented by a 24.7% strikeout rate and a commendable 10.7% walk rate. While he may be slightly above average at this stage of his career, maximizing McCutchen’s impact remains crucial for the Pirates, making him a natural fit for the leadoff position.
Bryan Reynolds: LF
Following McCutchen is Bryan Reynolds, a standout player who secured the largest contract in Pirates’ history. Regarded as the team’s premier hitter, Reynolds is ideally placed in the second spot of the lineup, poised to deliver consistent offensive firepower.
Reynolds impressed last season with a notable .791 OPS, supported by a .344 on-base percentage and a .447 slugging percentage. His impressive stats included 24 home runs, 29 doubles, and three triples, along with 88 RBIs. As a two-time All-Star, Reynolds is set to be a driving force in the Pirates’ lineup, embodying the modern trend of slotting the best hitter in the second position for optimal impact.
Oneil Cruz: CF
Taking the third spot in the lineup is Oneil Cruz, the Pirates’ dynamic center fielder who transitioned from shortstop to his new role with high expectations for the upcoming season. Cruz’s offensive capabilities were on full display in 2024, marked by exceptional metrics that placed him among the league’s elite.
With a barrel rate of 15.7, an average exit velocity of 95.5 mph, and a hard-hit rate of 54.9%, Cruz’s performance ranked in the 97th percentile or higher. His impressive output included 21 home runs, 34 doubles, and an OPS of .773, in addition to 22 stolen bases and a solid wRC+ of 110. Looking ahead to 2025, Cruz aims to refine his game by reducing strikeouts, a move that could elevate him to the upper echelons of center fielders in the league. As he harnesses his diverse skill set, this season is poised to showcase Cruz’s potential as a consistent and impactful player for the Pirates.
