Pirates Designate Outfielder Jack Suwinski for Assignment

Pittsburgh moves on from power-hitting but inconsistent outfielder after 4 seasons.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Pittsburgh Pirates have designated outfielder Jack Suwinski for assignment, cutting ties with the 27-year-old after he spent the last four seasons in the organization. Suwinski, who was acquired in a 2021 trade, showed flashes of power at the plate but also struggled with inconsistency and a high strikeout rate.

Why it matters

Suwinski's departure opens up opportunities for younger outfield prospects in the Pirates' thin outfield group, as the team looks to move in a new direction after Suwinski's up-and-down tenure in Pittsburgh.

The details

Suwinski was originally acquired by the Pirates in July 2021 in a trade that sent second baseman Adam Frazier to the San Diego Padres. He made his MLB debut in 2022 and enjoyed a breakout power season in 2023, hitting 26 home runs which ranked 20th in the National League. However, Suwinski also led the NL in strikeouts that year with 172. His production declined in 2024 and 2025, leading the Pirates to designate him for assignment and clear a roster spot to officially sign newly acquired designated hitter Marcell Ozuna.

  • Suwinski was acquired by the Pirates in July 2021.
  • Suwinski made his MLB debut in 2022.
  • In 2023, Suwinski hit 26 home runs, ranking 20th in the NL, but also led the league in strikeouts with 172.
  • Suwinski's production declined in 2024 and 2025, leading to his designation for assignment in February 2026.

The players

Jack Suwinski

A 27-year-old outfielder who spent the last four seasons in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization after being acquired in a 2021 trade.

Marcell Ozuna

A newly acquired designated hitter for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Jake Mangum

A Pirates outfield prospect who may see more playing time with Suwinski's departure.

Jhostynxon Garcia

A Pirates outfield prospect who may see more playing time with Suwinski's departure.

Esmerlyn Valdez

A Pirates outfield prospect who may see more playing time with Suwinski's departure.

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What’s next

If Suwinski is not claimed off waivers, he will return to the Pirates' Minor League system and likely elect to hit the free-agency market.

The takeaway

Suwinski's departure highlights the Pirates' need to develop consistent, well-rounded outfielders to complement their lineup, as they look to the next generation of prospects to fill the void left by the power-hitting but streaky Suwinski.