The Pittsburgh Pirates have released designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, ending a disappointing tenure less than six months after signing the veteran slugger to a one-year, $12 million contract intended to strengthen the club’s offense. The move comes as Pittsburgh continues to push for a National League postseason berth while seeking greater production from its lineup.
Ozuna, 35, struggled throughout the season, batting .203 with eight home runs, 29 RBIs and 80 strikeouts across 70 games. Signed after productive seasons with Atlanta that included 39 home runs and 104 RBIs in 2024, the three-time All-Star never regained that form in Pittsburgh. His playing time steadily declined in recent weeks, with rookie contributors and other lineup options taking on larger roles as the Pirates searched for more consistent offensive production.
Pittsburgh is expected to fill Ozuna’s roster spot by recalling versatile switch-hitter Ronny Simon from Triple-A Indianapolis. Simon has emerged as one of the International League’s top performers this season, batting .330 with seven home runs, 63 RBIs and 33 stolen bases in 99 games, giving the Pirates another option as they reshape their roster for the stretch run.
Ozuna finishes his brief Pirates stint after an offseason acquisition that was viewed as a key addition to an offense that ranked near the bottom of the majors in 2025. Despite his struggles in Pittsburgh, he owns a lengthy major league résumé that includes stops with the Miami Marlins, St. Louis Cardinals, Atlanta Braves and Pirates, compiling a career .267 batting average with 304 home runs, 977 RBIs and 1,678 hits. Because of his contract and declining production, he is expected to pass through waivers before determining his next opportunity.
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