Pirates' All-Star infielder predicted to accomplish feat not done since Andrew McCutchen

The Pittsburgh Pirates made additions to the lineup during the offseason, and it's paying off. 

Pittsburgh's $12 million signing of designated hitter Marcell Ozuna has not turned out to be a great investment, but its trade for second baseman Brandon Lowe looks more like a win every day. 

The Athletic's Johnny Flores Jr. predicts that Lowe will end an 11-year drought for the Pirates, winning their first Silver Slugger Award since beloved outfielder Andrew McCutchen took home the hardware in 2015. 

"The Pirates have not had a Silver Slugger winner since Andrew McCutchen in 2015. It’s the longest active drought for that award among all teams," Flores wrote. "Even the Rockies, White Sox, and Marlins have had a more recent winner than Pittsburgh." 

In 54 games this season, Lowe is hitting .260/.346/.529 with 14 home runs and a .875 OPS, which would be a career high for a season with over 56 games played. 

"The only Pirate to win at second base was one Johnny Ray in 1983. Lowe can change that, but it’s going to take a strong finish," Flores added. 

MORE: Phillies extending Cristopher Sanchez to his $107 million deal was genius

Lowe has plenty of power, but could be going up against guys like Xavier Edwards of the Miami Marlins and Milwaukee Brewers Gold Glove winner Brice Turang. 

"That Pittsburgh could end an awards and playoff drought in the same season is all the more reason to watch the club," Flores wrote, noting that the Pirates have not made the postseason since McCutchen won the Silver Slugger in 2015. 

More MLB news:

• 5 reasons to believe in Jordan Walker's breakout for Cardinals
• Roman Anthony might’ve been overhyped for Red Sox
• Chase Burns becomes first Reds pitcher with elite stat line since 1922
• Mets projected to still sell at trade deadline by ex-MLB GM
• Ex-MLB GM projects White Sox to sell at trade deadline despite 2026 success