Pirates Slugger Marcell Ozuna Sets Tone for 2026 With Bold Message

Veteran slugger Ozuna makes it clear he's focused on making an impact with his new team.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Pittsburgh Pirates wasted no time signaling their ambitions for the 2026 season, and newly acquired slugger Marcell Ozuna delivered the message himself. In his first comments at spring training, the 35-year-old veteran made it clear he's ready to "do damage" at the plate, setting the tone for a team looking to improve on its league-worst 117 home runs in 2025.

Why it matters

Ozuna's signing directly addresses the Pirates' need for middle-of-the-order power, and his veteran presence and postseason experience could provide stability for a relatively young Pittsburgh lineup. If he can rebound from an injury-affected 2025 season, Ozuna's bat could transform the Pirates' offense and help the team stay competitive deep into the 2026 season.

The details

The Pirates acquired Ozuna on a one-year, $12 million deal that includes a $1.5 million buyout for 2027. General manager Ben Cherington emphasized the club's need for more power, and Ozuna's track record suggests he can provide it. In a clip shared by SportsNet Pittsburgh, Ozuna was asked about the challenges of hitting at PNC Park and responded, "I like to hit. Thanks God for giving me the opportunity and the ability to do damage." This mindset reflects the Pirates' broader outlook as they build around ace Paul Skenes and a pitching staff poised to compete.

  • Ozuna officially joined the Pirates last Monday after agreeing to the one-year deal.
  • Spring training is currently ramping up in Bradenton for the Pirates.

The players

Marcell Ozuna

A 35-year-old veteran slugger who the Pirates recently acquired on a one-year, $12 million deal to address the team's need for middle-of-the-order power.

Ben Cherington

The general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who emphasized the team's need for more power and made the acquisition of Ozuna a priority.

Paul Skenes

The Pirates' ace pitcher, who is part of a pitching staff that is poised to compete in 2026.

Oneil Cruz

A young Pirates player who could benefit from the added protection and stability that Ozuna's bat could provide in the lineup.

Bryan Reynolds

Another young Pirates player who could see improved protection and run-scoring opportunities with Ozuna in the lineup.

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What they’re saying

“I like to hit. Thanks God for giving me the opportunity and the ability to do damage.”

— Marcell Ozuna (SportsNet Pittsburgh)

What’s next

The Pirates will be closely monitoring Ozuna's performance and health during spring training, as they hope he can rebound from the hip injury that affected his 2025 season and provide the middle-of-the-order power they desperately need.

The takeaway

Ozuna's bold declaration at spring training sets the tone for the Pirates' 2026 season, as the team looks to build around its veteran slugger and emerging pitching staff to compete for a playoff spot. His mindset and veteran presence could be crucial in transforming the Pirates' offense and helping the team stay in the hunt deep into the season.