PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates have finalized their opening day roster, just hours before their season opener against the Miami Marlins on March 27, 2025. This roster, consisting of 26 players, reflects a strategic blend of promising young talent and experienced veterans, setting the stage for what fans hope will be a competitive season.
Leading the starting rotation is Paul Skenes, the reigning National League Rookie of the Year, who is joined by fellow right-handers Mitch Keller and Carmen Mlodzinski. Mlodzinski, who transitioned from the bullpen, adds depth to a rotation that also features two left-handed starters: Bailey Falter and Andrew Heaney. Heaney, who signed a one-year contract worth $5.25 million with performance incentives, is expected to bolster the pitching staff significantly.
The bullpen is anchored by experienced right-handers David Bednar, Colin Holderman, and Dennis Santana, who will continue to provide stability on the mound. Adding to the depth, the Pirates acquired right-hander Justin Lawrence off waivers from the Colorado Rockies on March 1. The bullpen also includes lefties Ryan Borucki, Tim Mayza, Joey Wentz, and Caleb Ferguson. Ferguson, who spent last season with the New York Yankees and Houston Astros, inked a one-year, $3 million deal to join the Pirates. Mayza brings invaluable World Series experience after pitching with the Yankees last season.
Behind the plate, the Pirates will have two catchers: Joey Bart and Endy Rodríguez. Bart is slated to start, while Rodríguez makes his return after missing most of the previous season due to a winter ball injury that required reconstructive surgery on his ulnar collateral ligament (UCL). His comeback is highly anticipated, as he was a key player before his injury.
The infield is structured to maximize versatility, featuring Jared Triolo, Ke’Bryan Hayes, Nick Gonzalez, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, and Adam Frazier. Hayes will take on the role of third baseman, while Gonzalez is set for second base, and Kiner-Falefa will handle shortstop duties. Triolo is expected to play first base and other infield positions, contributing to the team’s flexibility.
In the outfield, the Pirates have secured veteran Andrew McCutchen, who joined the team on a one-year, $4 million deal. McCutchen is expected to anchor left field, bringing leadership and experience to the young roster. The outfield is further strengthened by Tommy Pham, Oneil Cruz, Bryan Reynolds, Ji Hwan Bae, and Jack Suwinski. Cruz aims to solidify his role in center field, while Reynolds will step into right field, providing a strong offensive presence. Bae and Suwinski add valuable depth, ensuring the Pirates have a robust lineup as the season progresses.
As the Pirates prepare for their opening series against the Marlins, the roster reflects a balanced blend of youthful promise and seasoned veterans. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this mix will perform, especially with the high expectations surrounding Skenes and the returning Rodríguez.
The Pirates’ management has expressed confidence in the team’s potential, emphasizing the importance of a strong start to the season. With the combination of young stars and veteran presence, the organization aims to compete in the National League and make a push for a playoff spot.
As the first pitch approaches, the excitement is palpable among fans who hope to witness a successful season unfold. The Pirates will look to build momentum early, leveraging their new roster to establish themselves in the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.
