Marcell Ozuna's Healthy Hip and Clubhouse Impact Boost Pirates

Veteran slugger looks to bounce back after injury-plagued 2025 season

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Pittsburgh Pirates designated hitter Marcell Ozuna is feeling healthy again after dealing with a nagging hip injury last season. Ozuna, who finished fourth in NL MVP voting in 2024, is now focused on mentoring young stars like Oneil Cruz and helping the team's Latin American players come together as a tight-knit group.

Why it matters

Ozuna's resurgence could be a major boost for the Pirates, who are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 campaign. His leadership and veteran presence in the clubhouse could also help develop the team's young core of talent.

The details

Ozuna said his hip felt "bad" last year, causing a drop in his production - his OPS fell from .925 to .756 and his home run total dipped from 39 to 21. But he's now fully healthy and ready to recapture his 2024 form, when he was worth 4.3 wins above replacement. In addition to his on-field impact, Ozuna has taken on a mentorship role, particularly with rising star Oneil Cruz, helping the young players enjoy the game and learn from his experience.

  • Ozuna signed a $12 million contract with the Pirates in the offseason.
  • Ozuna is currently in spring training with the team in Bradenton, Florida.

The players

Marcell Ozuna

A $12 million designated hitter for the Pittsburgh Pirates who finished fourth in National League MVP voting in 2024.

Oneil Cruz

A rising star in the Pirates' organization who Ozuna has taken under his wing as a mentor.

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What they’re saying

“My hip was bad last year. It didn't feel the same. This year I feel 100%.”

— Marcell Ozuna (The Tribune)

“There are a bunch young guys here. They need to learn. I think that's why I'm a good fit. I can teach them how it should be done.”

— Marcell Ozuna (The Tribune)

“When he doesn't have someone who he trusts, he's gonna get a little wild. Right now, we're spending a lot of time together. He's talking to me every day.”

— Marcell Ozuna (The Tribune)

What’s next

Ozuna and the Pirates will look to build on the positive momentum from spring training when the regular season begins in April.

The takeaway

Ozuna's return to full health and his leadership in the clubhouse could be a game-changer for the Pirates, who are hoping to bounce back after a tough 2025 campaign. His mentorship of young stars like Oneil Cruz could help unlock the team's potential and make them a force to be reckoned with in the NL Central.