EPISODE · Aug 5, 2026 · 15 MIN
Pirates Didn’t Add a Bat. Now the Offense Has to Deliver
from North Shore Nine: A Pittsburgh Pirates Podcast · host North Shore Nine
The Pirates rebuilt their bullpen at the trade deadline, but they did not add another bat. Now a lineup that entered Tuesday ranked 26th in MLB with a .644 OPS since the All-Star break has to prove it can lead Pittsburgh through the postseason race. Alex Stumpf breaks down Esmerlyn Valdez’s recent struggles and passive approach, the pressure on Bryan Reynolds, the potential impact of Oneil Cruz’s eventual return and why the offense becomes even more important with Mitch Keller sidelined and questions surrounding the starting rotation. OffBeat is presented by FanDuel. Subscribe to Book-Rule Bucs: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/ Download the North Shore Nine app: https://northshorenine.com/get-app Subscribe to North Shore Nine for daily Pittsburgh Pirates coverage, live shows, postgame reactions and more. 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
The Pirates dramatically improved their bullpen at the trade deadline, but their decision not to add another hitter is being tested by a second-half offensive slump. Alex Stumpf examines Esmerlyn Valdez’s recent approach, the struggles of Bryan Reynolds and why Pittsburgh cannot simply wait for Oneil Cruz to return.
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Pirates Didn’t Add a Bat. Now the Offense Has to Deliver
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