The Pittsburgh Pirates are fighting for the third National League Wild Card playoff spot. The Pirates are just outside the playoffs looking in as they’re only a couple of games back from the Arizona Diamondbacks who are currently in that coveted third Wild Card spot.
The Pirates made some major moves at the July 30th Major League Baseball trade deadline to make a push for the playoffs. The headline deal Pittsburgh made got them the outfield power they needed in former Miami Marlins outfielder Bryan De La Cruz. De La Cruz has 18 home runs this season, which immediately puts him second on the team in home runs behind Bryan Reynolds.
In addition to the deal for De La Cruz, the Pirates added utility player Isiah Kiner-Falefa, amid his best offensive season and some bullpen depth in Jalen Beeks. With all the new additions to Pittsburgh, the Pirates have their eyes set on the playoffs.
The Pirates’ chances are “raised” according to Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly when using one word to describe each MLB team following the trade deadline.
“With the starting-pitching trio of Paul Skenes, Jared Jones and Mitch Keller, the Jolly Roger has already been raised 55 times this season,” Kelly said. “Pittsburgh has a chance to not only post their first winning record since 2018, but to reach the postseason for the first time since 2015. Whether or not acquiring Bryan De La Cruz and Isiah Kiner-Falefa gives the Pirates enough offense to go on a run over the final two months of the season, it’s encouraging to see Pittsburgh trying to reach the postseason.”
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The emergence of Paul Skenes and Jared Jones has been huge for Pittsburgh this season. With their pitching staff being red hot and an offense headlined by two-time All-Star Bryan Reynolds and new addition Bryan De La Cruz, the Pirates are in a great spot to compete for the playoffs. Pittsburgh has a bright future and is on an upward trend.
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