Overview
- Former MLB general manager Jim Bowden wrote on May 21 that Marcell Ozuna is "done" and called him a likely release candidate if struggles continue.
- Ozuna has produced a steep drop in 2026, hitting roughly .179 with a .579 OPS, about -0.7 bWAR and roughly 150–171 plate appearances this season.
- Advanced metrics back the decline with a falling slugging percentage over recent seasons, a plunge in hard-hit rate, a career-high strikeout rate near 28.1 percent, and his lowest average exit velocity since Statcast began.
- The Pirates have started reducing Ozuna's starts, including multiple games not starting against right-handed pitchers, and are considering a lefty-righty platoon since he still posts better numbers vs. left-handed pitching.
- Ozuna signed a one-year, $12 million deal that includes a 2027 mutual option, but outlets say exercising that option looks unlikely if these trends persist and Pittsburgh prefers roster flexibility to protect a stronger overall club performance.