Pirates Release Former 40-HR Slugger
The Pittsburgh Pirates are moving on from one of their veterans, as they are set to release slugger Marcell Ozuna.
The Pittsburgh Pirates have announced the release of former 40-HR slugger Marcell Ozuna from their roster, according to MLB insider Mike Rodriguez. The 35-year-old will now join the free agent market. This move does not come as a surprise, as Ozuna had a disappointing 2026 season, with only eight home runs and a .203 batting average.
The two-time Silver Slugger's struggles with the Pirates suggest the team decided to move on. Ozuna inked a one-year contract with the Pirates during the offseason, following his impressive 2025 campaign with the Atlanta Braves. During that time, he hit 21 home runs, drove in 68 runs, and posted a .232 batting average in 145 games.
Although Ozuna's performance has dipped this year, another team might view his talents as valuable. Notably, he enjoyed a stellar 2024, where he smashed 39 home runs, drove in 104 runs, and maintained a .302 batting average in 162 games for the Pirates. His record-breaking 40 homers hit in 2023 also make him an attractive option for teams seeking offensive firepower.
Regardless, it remains to be seen where Marcell Ozuna will land after being released by the Pittsburgh Pirates.
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