The Pirates bounced back from a rough start losing their first two games to the New York Mets but winning their third one against them. After  they lost another game to the Cincinnati Reds they went on a five game win streak before unfortunately losing the streak to the Sam Diego Padres.

They continued with a win and a loss against the Padres and are currently competing for the National league central division’s first place.

The Pirates then faced the Chicago Cubs winning one game against them but losing two. They are currently leading the National League Central division. The team has also had some key new signings and departures.

 

Key Departures from the team include veteran Andrew McCutchen who signed a Minor League deal with the Texas Rangers. Pitchers Hunter Barco, Enmanuel Valdez, Cam Sanders and Tyler Callihan all signed minor league deals with the Indianapolis Indians. Billy Cook was cut and Jared Triolo was placed on an injury list.

 

Key signings to the team include Konnor Griffin, who the Pirates hope to keep as a long term player due to his extensive nine year, $140 million contract. Marcell Ozuna was also signed, and the Pirates seem to highly value him. Other signings include international stars Jeancer Custodio, Wilton Guerrero Jr., and Alexander Pio. 

   

The Pirates are currently sitting in third place in the National League Central. However, they are only a few wins behind the second place St. Louis Cardinals and the first place Cincinnati Reds. So if the Pirates gain a few more wins and the Cardinals and Reds can gain a few more losses the Pirates could get into the first place position relatively quickly due to their elite starting rotation and the veteran talent that they picked up in the off season.