SB Nation Reacts: Pirates Fans Pick Ryan O'Hearn as Team's Best Hitter

Fans vote O'Hearn over Brandon Lowe, Oneil Cruz, and other Pirates hitters for 2023 season

Mar. 15, 2026 at 8:38pm

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In a recent SB Nation Reacts survey, Pittsburgh Pirates fans voted Ryan O'Hearn as the team's best hitter for the upcoming 2023 season. O'Hearn received nearly 30% of the vote, edging out Brandon Lowe, Oneil Cruz, Bryan Reynolds, and Marcell Ozuna.

Why it matters

The Pirates are hoping their improved hitting will help them rebound from a disappointing 2022 season. Identifying their best hitter is an important part of setting expectations and building momentum heading into the new year.

The details

The Pirates are off to a strong 16-7 start in spring training, with their improved hitting being a key factor. While it remains to be seen if that success will carry over to the regular season, the team has more offensive talent on the roster this year. In the SB Nation Reacts survey, fans were asked to vote for who they think will be the Pirates' best hitter in 2023, with Ryan O'Hearn emerging as the top choice.

  • The SB Nation Reacts survey was conducted in March 2023, ahead of the start of the 2023 MLB season.

The players

Ryan O'Hearn

A first baseman who was acquired by the Pirates in the offseason and is expected to be a key part of their lineup in 2023.

Brandon Lowe

An infielder who was the second-highest vote-getter in the SB Nation Reacts survey of Pirates fans.

Oneil Cruz

A highly touted young shortstop who is poised for a breakout season with the Pirates.

Bryan Reynolds

An outfielder who has been one of the Pirates' most consistent hitters in recent years.

Marcell Ozuna

A veteran outfielder who the Pirates signed in the offseason to bolster their lineup.

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The takeaway

The Pirates' fans are optimistic about the team's improved offensive potential heading into the 2023 season, with Ryan O'Hearn emerging as the fan favorite to be the club's best hitter. This reflects the team's efforts to build a more well-rounded lineup that can help them rebound from a disappointing 2022 campaign.