Offense
In spite of their pitching, the Pirates have been one of the best offensive teams in the game so far this season. They are third in average, second in on base percentage, and are fourth in WAR. They are also the only team to not be shut out this season.
Andrew McCutchen is an MVP candidate every year lately. Not this year. He’s hovering around .250 and that has a lot to do with a thumb injury. However, his outfield compatriots are making up the slack. Gregory Polanco got an extension early in the season and it may turn out to be a bargain for the Pirates. Starling Marte is emerging into a star and the team leader in WAR.
On the infield, Jung Ho Kang hasn’t missed a beat in recovering from his broken leg and already has nine homers in less than 40 games. John Jaso and David Freese have emerged in a nice platoon at first. Jaso may not be your traditional leadoff hitter, but he hit leadoff with the Rays before, and the guy knows how to get on base.
Josh Harrison was given the second base job after the Pirates dealt Neil Walker and hasn’t missed a beat. They do miss Francisco Cervelli behind the dish as Chris Stewart and Erik Kratz don’t provide much offensively.
On the bench, Sean Rodriguez and Matt Joyce have provided punch combining for 13 homers.
Next: Final Verdict