Pirates consider offseason decisions after 82-80 finish in 2026 season

The Pittsburgh Pirates, who wrapped up the 2026 season with an 82-80 record, face critical decisions this offseason. They need to avoid poor signings that limit their future roster flexibility. Sports Illustrated advises against pursuing second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr., who had a disappointing 2026 season with a.231 batting average. Instead, the Pirates should focus on re-signing Brandon Lowe, their standout hitter with 35 home runs and a.824 OPS. Alongside Lowe, the team aims to build around young talent Konnor Griffin at shortstop, who showed promise as a rookie. The Pirates seek to return to the postseason, ending their 11-year playoff drought in 2027.

• 2:18 AMYahoo Sports — Pirates Warned Against Making Potential Offseason Mistake