EPISODE · Aug 7, 2026 · 15 MIN
Oneil Cruz’s Return Is Becoming a Major Concern
from North Shore Nine: A Pittsburgh Pirates Podcast · host North Shore Nine
Oneil Cruz is eligible to return from the 60-day injured list, but the Pittsburgh Pirates still do not have a firm timeline for his comeback. Alex Stumpf explains why the continued uncertainty surrounding Cruz’s hand injury is becoming increasingly concerning. Even when Cruz begins a rehab assignment, questions will remain about his timing, power and ability to immediately resemble the hitter who carried Pittsburgh’s offense earlier this season. The Pirates also chose not to add another hitter at the trade deadline, partly because they expected Cruz and Ryan O’Hearn to eventually return. With Bryan Reynolds, Jake Mangum and Esmerlyn Valdez struggling lately, that decision is beginning to look much riskier. Presented by FanDuel. Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ZY250XUYiS-yX7xOQCdLA/join Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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What this episode covers
Oneil Cruz is eligible to return from the 60-day injured list, but the Pirates still have no firm timeline for his comeback. Alex Stumpf explains why the lingering hand injury is especially concerning for a hitter whose value is built on power, and why Pittsburgh’s decision not to add another bat at the deadline now looks riskier. With Bryan Reynolds slumping and Ryan O’Hearn injured, the Pirates desperately need Cruz back at full strength. Watch OffBeat for the complete breakdown.
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Oneil Cruz’s Return Is Becoming a Major Concern
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