Under manager Don Kelly, the Pittsburgh Pirates are far behind in the National League, sitting 10.5 games back from the Milwaukee Brewers. However, at 44-44, their postseason hopes may ride on a wild-card spot, which they are three games back from.
However, a .500 record likely won't get them to their first postseason appearance since 2015. With the trade deadline now a month away (Aug. 3), Pittsburgh may be in the market for some roster help.
During an appearance on MLB Network, analyst Jon Morosi revealed that the Pirates are expected to be buyers at the deadline and are looking for some reinforcements to their pitching staff.
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“I’ve been checking in with sources on this, and again last night, I said, 'What are we hearing on the Pirates?’ and I was told they are planning to buy,” Morosi said. “They are planning to buy, and at the moment they are focused on bullpen. They want a little bit more swing and miss, help secure some games late.”
The Pirates do have several intriguing trade pieces. According to MLB.com, they have two top-100 prospects in right-handed pitcher Seth Hernandez (No. 6) and outfielder/first baseman Edward Florentino (No. 31). Whether or not they move either depends on how much of an upgrade they can get.
Pittsburgh's bullpen has been a clear weakness throughout the 2026 MLB season. Their relievers rank 23rd in ERA (4.37), 22nd in WHIP (1.39) and 14th in hits allowed (300). Closer Gregory Soto is also just 11-for-15 in save opportunities.
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According to The Athletic, there are a handful of relief pitchers that could be available at the deadline, including the Boston Red Sox's Aroldis Chapman, the Houston Astros' Josh Hader and the St. Louis Cardinals' Riley O'Brien.
The Pirates have positioned themselves to remain in the postseason conversation, but if they sit idly by while other contenders make moves at the deadline, they could quickly fall behind.
