The Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly showing interest in former Braves designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, and on paper, the fit makes a lot of sense. After losing out on Eugenio Suárez-who just signed with the Reds-the Pirates remain in the market for right-handed power, and Ozuna could be a natural next target.
Let’s be clear: this offseason hasn’t exactly been kind to DH-only bats. Outside of Kyle Schwarber, the market has been ice cold for players who don’t offer much defensive flexibility.
Suárez, despite launching 49 home runs last season and posting 13.2 bWAR over the past four years, had to settle for a one-year, $15 million deal. That sets a tough precedent for Ozuna, who’s a year older and coming off a season where he was slowed by a hip injury and managed just 21 homers with a .756 OPS.
But when healthy, Ozuna’s bat still plays-loudly. In his two most recent fully healthy campaigns, he mashed 79 home runs and posted an OPS north of .900.
That’s the kind of middle-of-the-order production that the Pirates desperately need. Pittsburgh finished dead last in runs scored last season and hit 31 fewer home runs than any other team in the league.
They’re not looking for a savior-they’re looking for someone who can help move the needle. Ozuna, if he’s right physically, could be that guy.
There’s also the matter of familiarity and fit. While there’s been no recent movement from Atlanta, it’s tough to completely rule out a reunion with the Braves.
Ozuna was a popular figure in the Braves’ clubhouse and has a history with the organization that can’t be ignored. With Sean Murphy and Ha-Seong Kim already expected to miss the first month of the season, Atlanta could find itself in need of an early-season power boost.
Still, the Braves might not be able-or willing-to match the kind of financial offer a team like Pittsburgh could put on the table. For Ozuna, that sets up a classic choice: take a bigger payday with a team in transition, or return to a contending club that stood by him during some of his lowest moments. If the money is even close, the familiarity and championship aspirations in Atlanta could carry some real weight.
For now, the Pirates look like the more aggressive suitor. But until Ozuna puts pen to paper, don’t be surprised if the Braves keep a quiet door open.