The Pittsburgh Pirates have officially announced their arbitration-eligible outfielders following an extended arbitration process, as the team looks to revamp its roster after a disappointing 2024 season. With a focus on improving their lineup and overall team performance, these arbitration decisions are seen as pivotal for the Pirates’ future success.
Key Outfielders in Focus
Among the key outfielders eligible for arbitration are Connor Joe, Bryan De La Cruz, and Edward Olivares. These players have had mixed performances throughout the 2024 season, and the Pirates’ front office is carefully considering their roles moving forward.
Connor Joe
At 32, Connor Joe has struggled to maintain consistency. While he showed flashes of potential early in the season, his overall performance dipped as the year progressed. His future with the team is uncertain, and arbitration will likely determine whether he remains a part of the Pirates’ plans for 2025.
Bryan De La Cruz
Acquired at the trade deadline, Bryan De La Cruz was brought in to strengthen the Pirates’ lineup but underperformed down the stretch. However, with 20 home runs between his time with the Pirates and Miami Marlins, he remains a potential asset. The team is weighing the cost of arbitration against his potential to bounce back in the upcoming season.
Edward Olivares
The youngest of the group, Edward Olivares, struggled to establish himself in 2024, leading to a mid-season demotion to Triple-A. His arbitration case will determine whether the Pirates see long-term value in his development or decide to move in another direction.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The Pirates’ decision-making in this arbitration period is part of a larger effort to reshape the team and boost the roster for the 2025 season. While some outfielders may face uncertain futures, others could see new opportunities to contribute to a Pirates team looking to climb out of the bottom of the National League standings.
With arbitration settled, the focus now shifts to how these outfielders will be integrated—or replaced—as the Pirates aim to build a more competitive roster for the future.
Arbitration Challenges
The arbitration process can be unpredictable for teams, as players often receive raises simply for staying on the roster. Looking ahead to 2025, Reynolds is expected to remain in left field, with Cruz taking over center field full-time. That leaves right field open for competition, where these arbitration-eligible outfielders must prove their worth. Unfortunately, none of them made a compelling case in 2024.
Final Thoughts
As rookie Billy Cook continues to be evaluated across the outfield, it’s clear that the Pirates will need to make some moves if they hope to improve in 2025. While Cook, Suwinski, and De La Cruz may compete for outfield spots next spring, it’s apparent that the Pirates need to bring in outside talent—whether via trade or free agency—to lift their offense above the dreaded Mendoza Line. Continuing to rely on players like Joe and Olivares won’t lead to the turnaround the team desperately need.
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