· 2026-07-14

Ke’Bryan Hayes leads the charge with a .342 average and 18 homers, while Oneil Cruz (16 HRs) and Jake Bauers (14 HRs) anchor the middle. Even without All-Star representation, their lineup ranks top-10 in NL runs scored this season.
Last year, Hayes, Cruz, and Bauers were all All-Star candidates, but injuries and slumps cost them bids. This year? Their production speaks louder. The Pirates’ 1.200 OPS is the highest in franchise history for a non-playoff team.
Manager Dusty Baker will keep leaning on his bats, but the bullpen must tighten up to secure more wins. With Jared Jones (12 HRs) and Tyler Jones (15 steals) adding depth, the Pirates have a real shot at a late-season push.
A 50-47 record isn’t flashy, but their offense is. If the rotation stays healthy, this lineup could carry them past the Brewers, Cubs, and Cardinals—even without All-Star fanfare.