SWING AND A MISS

The news landed with a thud — and not the good kind.

Veteran third baseman Eugenio Suárez opted to sign with the Cincinnati Reds, reportedly for comparable or possibly less money than what the Pittsburgh Pirates were offering. The 34-year-old slugger chose familiarity, a hitter-friendly home park and a short-term, prove-it opportunity. In short, he bet on himself.

It is hard to fault the decision.

MLB insider Jeff Passan noted on Threads that Pittsburgh appeared to be an ideal fit for Suárez. But after launching 49 home runs last season between Seattle and Arizona, the allure of Great American Ball Park is obvious. Suárez hit 49 home runs there in 2019 and added 31 more in 2021 while wearing a Reds uniform.

For the Pirates, the decision leaves a familiar and frustrating reality. Pittsburgh will again rely on Gold Glove-caliber defense at third base with limited offensive upside at one of baseball’s most power-dependent positions.

The average OPS for MLB third basemen in 2025 was .701. Jared Triolo posted a .667 OPS, well below the league average. Defense may win championships, but even with a promising pitching staff, the Pirates must score runs at a league-average level to contend.

Pittsburgh did add power this offseason, bringing in Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn, who combined for nearly 50 home runs. There is also upside elsewhere. Oneil Cruz could take another step forward. Nick Gonzales and Henry Davis remain wild cards. Top prospect Konnor Griffin could eventually add pop. Bryan Reynolds could rebound after an uneven season.

But that is a long list of “ifs.”

With spring training less than three weeks away, the Pirates’ offensive ceiling remains uncertain. And in a competitive National League Central, it raises an uncomfortable question: Is third place still the realistic best-case scenario?