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The Pirates release Marcell Ozuna story is quickly becoming one of the biggest talking points following the MLB trade deadline. According to reports, the Pittsburgh Pirates are preparing to part ways with the veteran slugger after a disappointing season that failed to meet expectations.
Although the team made several bullpen additions before the trade deadline, Pittsburgh appears to be continuing its roster overhaul. Releasing Ozuna would mark another significant move as the Pirates continue their push toward postseason contention.
Pirates Reportedly Moving On from Marcell Ozuna
MLB insider Mike Rodriguez reported that the Pirates have decided to release Marcell Ozuna just days after the trade deadline.
According to Rodriguez, Pittsburgh is expected to cut ties with the Dominican designated hitter to create roster space for infielder Ronny Simon, who is reportedly set to receive a call-up to the major leagues.
While the organization has not officially confirmed the move, multiple reports suggest that Ozuna’s time in Pittsburgh is coming to an end.
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A $12 Million Signing That Never Worked
The Pirates signed Marcell Ozuna to a one-year, $12 million contract hoping he would add veteran leadership and much-needed power to the lineup. Instead, the signing became one of the team’s biggest disappointments of the 2026 season.
Throughout the year, Ozuna struggled to produce consistently at the plate. His offensive numbers fell well below league average, making it difficult for the Pirates to justify keeping him on the active roster.
Veteran players are often expected to provide stability during a playoff race. Unfortunately for Pittsburgh, Ozuna failed to deliver the impact the front office envisioned.
Marcell Ozuna’s 2026 Statistics
Ozuna’s performance this season highlights why the Pirates appear ready to move on.
His reported numbers include:
- Batting average: .203
- Home runs: 8
- RBIs: 29
- OPS: .612
- OPS+: 68
- bWAR: -1.0
These statistics rank well below the standard expected from a designated hitter. Since Ozuna primarily filled the DH role, his offensive production needed to compensate for his lack of defensive value.
Instead, his negative WAR indicates he actually hurt the team’s overall performance compared to a replacement-level player.
Why the Pirates Are Making This Decision
The Pirates remain focused on improving their roster as they chase a postseason berth. Every roster spot has become increasingly valuable, especially after the trade deadline.
By releasing Ozuna, Pittsburgh can create opportunities for younger players who may provide more athleticism, defensive flexibility, and offensive upside.
Ronny Simon’s expected promotion fits that strategy. Although Simon has yet to establish himself in the major leagues, the Pirates appear willing to evaluate younger talent rather than continue giving at-bats to a struggling veteran.
This move also reflects the organization’s willingness to admit when a free-agent signing has not worked out.
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Financial Cost Won’t Change the Decision
Cutting Ozuna will not erase the financial commitment attached to his contract. The Pirates are still expected to absorb the remainder of his $12 million salary.
However, keeping an underperforming designated hitter simply because of his salary would do little to improve the team’s chances of winning.
Many front offices now prioritize roster efficiency over sunk costs. If a player is no longer contributing, teams often choose to move forward despite the financial loss.
That appears to be exactly what Pittsburgh is doing.
What Happens Next?
As of Wednesday morning, the Pirates had not officially announced Ozuna’s release. Nevertheless, reports strongly suggest the move is imminent.
If released, Ozuna would become a free agent and could look for another opportunity with a team seeking experienced offensive depth. Whether another club takes a chance on the 35-year-old slugger remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, the Pirates will continue evaluating younger talent as they attempt to remain competitive during the final stretch of the regular season.
The reported decision to release Marcell Ozuna signals the end of a disappointing experiment for Pittsburgh. The veteran slugger arrived with expectations of providing middle-of-the-order power but instead struggled throughout the season.
Although the Pirates will absorb the financial hit, creating roster flexibility and giving younger players an opportunity may ultimately benefit the club more than continuing with an underperforming veteran.
If the reports become official, Ozuna’s brief tenure in Pittsburgh will be remembered as one of the team’s least successful free-agent signings in recent years.
