Pirates consider designating Marcell Ozuna for assignment amid poor performance
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 7, 2026, 5:56 PM
Last updated Jul 7, 2026
The Pittsburgh Pirates may designate Marcell Ozuna for assignment after the All-Star break, given his struggles this season. Ozuna, signed for $12 million with a 2027 mutual option, has underperformed, batting.202 with seven home runs in 58 games. His performance has drawn criticism as the Pirates have improved overall, raising questions about the decision to replace franchise icon Andrew McCutchen with Ozuna. Fans and analysts suggest Ozuna's role is detrimental to the team, especially since he no longer plays in the outfield.
- •Marcell Ozuna signed a $12 million contract with the Pirates for 2026.
- •He has a.202 batting average and a.610 OPS this season.
- •The Pirates have improved despite Ozuna's poor offensive contributions.
- •Ozuna's role originally replaced Andrew McCutchen in the lineup.
- •Fans and analysts are urging the team to move on from Ozuna.
- 5:56 PMYahoo Sports — Pirates urged to cut $12 million All-Star who replaced Andrew McCutchen
"The Pirates made a mistake with this contract.
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