Pirates Linked to Trade for Rays' Batting Champ Amid Ozuna Concerns

Yandy Diaz could provide a major offensive boost for Pittsburgh's playoff push.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:06pm

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The Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly interested in acquiring Tampa Bay Rays infielder Yandy Diaz, the 2023 American League batting champion, as the team looks to bolster its offense amid struggles from designated hitter Marcell Ozuna.

Why it matters

The Pirates made several big offseason moves to upgrade their lineup, including signing Brandon Lowe and Ryan O'Hearn. However, Ozuna's slow start has opened up the DH spot, and Diaz could provide a significant offensive upgrade at that position or elsewhere in the infield.

The details

According to Bleacher Report's Zachary D. Rymer, the Pirates are one of the potential landing spots for Diaz, who is coming off a 2023 season in which he won the AL batting title with a .330 average. Diaz has experience at first and third base in addition to DH, making him a versatile fit for the Pirates' needs.

  • Diaz is off to a hot start in 2026, posting a 1.105 OPS and .458 batting average through the Rays' first six games.
  • Ozuna is struggling mightily to begin the season, batting just .063 for the Pirates.

The players

Yandy Diaz

A 34-year-old infielder for the Tampa Bay Rays who won the 2023 American League batting title with a .330 average.

Marcell Ozuna

The Pittsburgh Pirates' designated hitter who is off to a slow start in 2026, batting just .063 through the first few games of the season.

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What they’re saying

“His name has appeared in a bunch of rumors in recent years. That is sure to continue if the Rays don't make a surprise playoff run.”

— Zachary D. Rymer, Bleacher Report Writer

What’s next

The Pirates will likely continue to monitor Ozuna's performance and Diaz's availability on the trade market as they look to bolster their offense for a potential playoff push.

The takeaway

Acquiring Yandy Diaz, the reigning AL batting champion, could provide a major offensive boost for the Pirates as they look to return to the playoffs. However, the team will need to weigh the potential cost of a trade against Diaz's impending free agency after the 2026 season.