Pirates could trade competitive-balance pick ahead of deadline
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 4:06 PM
Last updated Jun 19, 2026
The Pittsburgh Pirates are expected to be buyers as the MLB trade deadline approaches. Despite being 8.5 games behind in the NL Central, they are one game back in the Wild Card race. Reports suggest that the Pirates might trade their No. 34 overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft to strengthen their roster. With the draft scheduled for July 11 and 12, they have three weeks to make a move. Recent discussions point to the need for bullpen help and a replacement for Marcell Ozuna, whose performance has struggled.
- •Pirates are 8.5 games back in NL Central but one game back in Wild Card.
- •They hold the No. 34 overall pick to potentially trade for roster improvements.
- •Konnor Griffin and Oneil Cruz are expected to return from injury.
- •Recent trade involved sending Joey Bart to the Braves for Hunter Stratton.
- •MLB Draft takes place on July 11 and 12.
- 4:06 PMYahoo Sports — Why Pirates could make a trade very soon instead of waiting until deadline
"This is a fascinating situation for the Pirates this summer.
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