Pirates' Marcell Ozuna problem has a simple but unfortunate answer

The Pittsburgh Pirates have gone through some big changes recently, most notably with Ryan O'Hearn returning from the injured list, Konnor Griffin taking his place on the IL, and Carmen Mlodzinski landing on the restricted list.

But, there could be more change coming in the near future, as the Pirates might finally be forced into making the unfortunate, but necessary decision on a $12 million free agent signing.

Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report named Marcell Ozuna as the biggest problem the Pirates are dealing with this season, and for good reason. As much of a problem as he's been, there is an answer to this problem, though it's not an ideal one.

Pirates have simple but unfortunate answer to Marcell Ozuna problem

"Certainly not the return on investment that Pittsburgh was expecting," Miller writes on Ozuna, "and it might not be much longer before this designated hitter gets designated for assignment if he doesn't turn things around post haste."

The Pirates are having a good 2026 season, and they need to make sure they don't waste this season, as there is an unknown number of years left with Paul Skenes on the roster.

To make the most of the 2026 season, the Pirates need better production from their designated hitter spot. That's why cutting ties with Ozuna would make sense.

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The $12 million signing has a .186 batting average this season with five homers and -0.8 bWAR in 172 at-bats with a .573 OPS and 61 OPS+.

So far, this has been the worst season of Ozuna's career. If he weren't making $12 million, the Pirates likely would've moved on from him by now.

But, if he continues to struggle into June, the Pirates might have no choice but to DFA the former Atlanta Braves All-Star slugger.

Pittsburgh can't keep sending Ozuna out there with how bad he's been offensively. Almost anyone else would be better, and as he's the biggest problem the team is facing right now, the simple answer is to cut ties with him and find a new DH.

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