Locked On Pirates - Daily Podcast On The Pittsburgh Pirates

Pittsburgh Pirates face a rotation puzzle as Carmen Mlodzinski emerges as a potential game-changer. Can the young right-hander outshine veteran options and anchor the starting staff when every arm counts? Gary Morgan dissects the rotation depth, exploring why Mlodzinski’s newly developed splitter and flexibility could steer the Pirates through early-season uncertainty.

Key topics include Konnor Griffin’s explosive spring training showcase, the left side of the infield's open competition, and the ongoing quest for reliable back-end bullpen arms. Morgan tackles fan AMAs—highlighting Pittsburgh’s offensive upgrades, the importance of depth, and the pressure on new coaching...

Pittsburgh Pirates fans wrestle with Bubba Chandler’s rocky spring training outing—four walks in an inning spark debate about his readiness to anchor the rotation. Is growing pain normal, or the start of a troubling trend for Chandler as he’s counted on for the full MLB season? Gary Morgan explains why moments like these are crucial for player development, referencing Chandler’s progression and lessons learned from Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller.

Jack Suwinski lands with the Los Angeles Dodgers, potentially finding a clearer path to a 26-man roster spot than he had in Pittsburgh. Morgan e...

Pittsburgh Pirates shine with a perfect 3-0 start in Grapefruit League play—could Konnor Griffin be the Opening Day shortstop the team’s been waiting for? Gary Morgan spotlights Bryan Reynolds’ vintage form, Password Garcia’s defensive gems, and the emergence of Griffin as a potential Gold Glove-caliber shortstop. Pitchers Mitch Keller and Wilbert Dotel impress with midseason stuff, while fresh faces like Endy Rodriguez and Esmerlin Valdez make key impacts. The discussion also unpacks infield possibilities, why Triolo’s set at third base, and how roster depth positions the Pirates for a strong spring. Listener AMAs tackle the torpedo ba...

Pittsburgh Pirates fans mourn the passing of Bill Mazeroski, the Hall of Famer and iconic second baseman whose legendary walk-off homer in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series defined baseball history. Can Pittsburgh ever see a moment as electrifying as Maz’s? Gary Morgan pays tribute to Mazeroski’s 17-year career with the Pirates, emphasizing his defensive wizardry—8 Gold Gloves and a record 1,706 double plays—while celebrating his humility and deep roots in the Steel City.

Mazeroski’s influence extended beyond the diamond as a community pillar and mentor to generations of Pirates infielders, from Freddy Sanchez to Neil Walke...

NL Central race heats up as the Chicago Cubs emerge as consensus favorites, boasting key additions like Alex Bregman and a fortified pitching staff. Yet, questions linger—can Ian Happ hold his spot, and will the Cubs’ arms prove deep enough to dominate? With the Milwaukee Brewers adjusting to major departures, the Cincinnati Reds banking on internal growth, and the St. Louis Cardinals facing a full-scale rebuild, the landscape is shifting fast.

Gary Morgan breaks down each NL Central team's moves, strengths, and potential pitfalls, highlighting names like PCA, Freddy Peralta, Hunter Greene, and up-and-coming prospects like Jett...

Pittsburgh Pirates set a bold tone for spring training as Don Kelly takes the helm, prioritizing winning over feel-good vibes. With Kelly’s gritty, Pittsburgh-style leadership energizing both players and fans, the Pirates shift their focus to fielding a team that embodies toughness, versatility, and relentless pursuit of victory. Is this the spark the Bucs need to finally turn the corner?

Host Gary Morgan spotlights the impact of key offseason additions like Ryan O’Hearn, Brandon Lowe, and Marcell Ozuna, weighing who might deliver the biggest boost to the Pirates' lineup. The discussion tackles lineup flexibility, DH stra...

MLB Players Association faces unprecedented upheaval as Tony Clark’s resignation triggers federal scrutiny and ignites a fierce battle for union leadership. The influence of super agent Scott Boras looms large, raising urgent questions about Bruce Meyer’s candidacy and whether Boras-backed players on the executive subcommittee will steer critical decisions. Will the MLBPA maintain its independence as owners push for a hard salary cap in the upcoming CBA negotiations?

Gary Morgan spotlights Pittsburgh Pirates’ ace Paul Skenes, whose presence on the executive subcommittee gives the franchise rare leverage in labor talks. Skenes, not a Boras client, balanc...

Pittsburgh Pirates emerge as the talk of the national media, sparking playoff buzz and wild trade speculation—has relevancy finally arrived? Gary Morgan breaks down how external hype impacts the team, with headline-grabbing projections for prospects like Bubba Chandler. He exposes the pitfalls of national coverage, urging fans to trust their insider knowledge as the Pirates face newfound scrutiny and pressure.

Bryan Reynolds headlines the conversation after a major offseason overhaul, while roster shifts and left-handed power additions raise expectations for the lineup. Morgan spotlights competitive balance issues plaguing MLB, revealing the Pirates’ shockingly low postseason appearances sinc...

Tony Clark is out as MLBPA chief—does this signal a shift in the league’s labor landscape? Gary Morgan breaks down Clark’s departure, exposing the truth behind the MLB Players Association’s challenges and persistent calls for a salary cap. With player salaries polarized and baseball’s middle class shrinking, stars like Kyle Tucker rake in 77 times the league minimum, while most players see little change.

Gary Morgan spotlights the growing power of team owners and the league’s looming broadcast deals, questioning whether a new leader can rescue the status quo or if a salary cap r...

Pittsburgh Pirates fans gear up for the 2026 season as key camp battles ignite spring training excitement. Pasquale Garcia and Jake Mangum compete fiercely for an outfield bench spot, raising questions about roster flexibility and defensive strength. Is Nick Gonzalez’s utility and Jared Triolo’s adaptability what the Pirates need, or should they carry an extra outfielder for late-inning leverage? With new additions like Ryan O’Hearn, Brandon Lau, and controversial slugger Marcell Ozuna, is this the lineup to break through in the NL Central?

Gary Morgan breaks down the Pirates’ rebuilt roster, emphasizing power upgrades, proven veterans...

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Pittsburgh transforms Black baseball history, from the powerhouse Homestead Grays and Pittsburgh Crawfords of the Negro Leagues to MLB milestones like fielding the first all-Black and Latino lineup. How did legends like Josh Gibson, Satchel Paige, and Roberto Clemente change the game forever?

Gary Morgan spotlights Pittsburgh's unparalleled legacy, tracing stories of Gus Greenlee’s Crawfords dynasty, Cumberland Posey’s championship Grays, and Curt Roberts’s barrier-breaking debut for the Pirates. The discussion explores the 1971 World Series run, iconic figures like Willie Stargell and Manny Sanguillen, and the city’s ongoing influence on baseball’s push for equality...

Elroy Face redefined the Pittsburgh Pirates bullpen with his legendary forkball and an unshakable poise that changed MLB history. Can a pitcher standing just 5'8", 155 pounds become the most feared reliever in baseball? Face’s 18-1 masterpiece season, National League record 96 relief wins, and clutch World Series performances proved it’s possible.

Gary Morgan celebrates Face’s impact as a Pirates Hall of Famer and pioneer of the modern closer role, sharing personal memories and insights on how Face’s creativity, grit, and innovation revolutionized relief pitching. Key moments include Face’s transformation under Danny Murtaugh, tales from Pirat...

Pittsburgh Pirates shake up spring training as Henry Davis arrives with a rebuilt swing, aiming to transform the catcher position from a black hole to a potential All-Star asset. Can Davis’s biomechanical overhaul finally unlock his offensive future and boost the Buccos’ lineup early? AJ Burnett returns to Bradenton, injecting accountability and competitive fire into a young pitching staff searching for leadership and identity.

Gary Morgan breaks down Davis’s hitting changes, Burnett’s impact on pitchers like Paul Skenes and Jared Jones, and the urgent need for vocal clubhouse leaders. Highlights include Greg Brown’s home run c...

Pittsburgh Pirates keep fans guessing by placing Jared Jones on the 60-day IL—even as he throws bullpens with no injury setbacks. Is this the smartest roster management move of the offseason? Gary Morgan unpacks the real reason behind the decision, dispelling rumors of a hidden injury and revealing how the club leverages the IL clock to align perfectly with Jones’ recovery from internal brace surgery. Find out how this procedural tactic benefits both Jones’ timeline and Pittsburgh’s 40-man flexibility, while Jose Urquidy joins the roster.

The breakdown continues with an inside look at Nick Gonzales’ offensive...

Pittsburgh Pirates fans buzz about Konnor Griffin’s rapid ascent—could the 19-year-old phenom claim the Opening Day shortstop job? National outlets hype Griffin’s chances, but questions linger about realistic expectations, team control dynamics, and whether Ben Cherington might break tradition for a flawless spring performance. Gary Morgan explores Griffin’s meteoric rise, dissecting prospect hype versus genuine roster possibilities, and what must happen for a debut straight from Double-A.

Pirates intensify their pursuit of third base depth, eyeing Casey Schmitt from the San Francisco Giants and evaluating trade targets to strengthen the left side of the infi...

Paul Skenes sets the tone for the Pittsburgh Pirates with a blunt mission: make the playoffs, no excuses. Gary Morgan unpacks Skenes’ powerful message at Pirate City, exploring how the phenom’s no-nonsense attitude could shift a clubhouse weighed down by years of losing and “wait till next year” mentality. Is this the culture reset the Pirates desperately need? The episode goes beyond Skenes’ comments, raising pointed questions about accountability, expectations, and the danger of nostalgia for a team striving for relevance.

Gary also dives into the lore and quirks of Pirates player nicknames, from Pops and The Great...

Pittsburgh Pirates weigh trading Joey Bart to free up budget space—could this sensible, unsexy move reshape their 2026 lineup? Gary Morgan examines potential impacts, questions whether Endy Rodriguez and Rafael Flores are truly ready behind the plate, and highlights the team’s pursuit of a lefty starter. Key insights include why Mitch Keller and Brian Reynolds aren’t likely trade candidates, how the pitching staff’s depth concerns are real, and why moving foundational players might defeat the Pirates’ efforts to strengthen their offense. Three Rivers Stadium’s 25-year implosion anniversary sparks a look at Pittsburgh’s baseball legacy, as fans reflec...

Pittsburgh Pirates fans are trading hope for real expectations as the 2026 season begins. With the arrival of proven hitters like Jake Mangum, Password Garcia, Brandon Lau, Ryan O'Hearn, and Marcell Ozuna, the offense looks poised for a dramatic turnaround. Can Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds return to form and anchor a lineup that just added 70 home runs and nearly 200 RBIs on paper? Gary Morgan weighs the upside of prospects like Konnor Griffin while highlighting the reality of established power in a newly rejuvenated roster.

The discussion spotlights defensive challenges—especially at shortstop and third base—and questions if s...

Pittsburgh Pirates shake up their roster by signing Marcell Ozuna to a $12M deal, leaving Andrew McCutchen’s future hanging in the balance. Is this the end of an era for a franchise icon, or can Kutch carve out a new role amid rising playoff pressure? Gary Morgan breaks down the Ozuna acquisition, spotlighting the power bat’s recent stats, lingering questions about his controversial history, and the on-paper upgrade he represents at designated hitter.

Roster construction takes center stage as Brandon Lowe, Ryan O’Hearn, and Spencer Horwitz jostle for starting spots, while potential trades for Isaac...

Pittsburgh Pirates ignite spring training with a pitching arsenal that promises uncomfortable at-bats for hitters. Paul Skenes headlines the rotation, but with Mitch Keller, Bubba Chandler, and Braxton Ashcraft vying for key roles, the battle for rotation spots is fierce. Will reclamation projects like Jose Urquidy or surprise lefty Hunter Barko seize a coveted spot, and can Jared Jones recapture his elite velocity?

Gary Morgan assesses bullpen depth, highlighting Dennis Santana’s wicked slider, Gregory Soto’s flexibility, and the impact of new faces on the 40-man roster. The episode spotlights the Pirates’ “weapons”—from Skenes’ mythical “splinker” to Cha...

Can Jared Triolo’s underrated defensive value anchor the Pittsburgh Pirates’ infield, or does the team still need a major upgrade? Gary Morgan fields burning fan questions on roster construction, free agency targets like Andrew McCutchen and Jose Quintana, and weighs in on bold moves involving Ryan O’Hearn versus Eugenio Suarez for long-term impact. The conversation also tackles intriguing off-season developments—will Henry Davis’s work with Driveline unlock his power potential, and could prospect Connor Griffin make an unprecedented leap to the big leagues?

Gary addresses the ripple effects of Pittsburgh media turmoil, the implications of Tommy P...

Pittsburgh Pirates fans are buzzing over trade rumors—did the Framber Valdez saga ever have real merit, or was it all market smoke and mirrors? Gary Morgan exposes the truth behind the biggest offseason whispers, questioning the logic of hot takes and how social media twists speculation into “done deals.” With the Pirates’ infield alignment debated daily, which upgrades are fantasy, and which moves actually make sense?

Gary Morgan breaks down the Pirates’ infield puzzle, spotlighting Spencer Horowitz, Brandon Lowe, and Ryan O’Hearn’s roles. He explains why the team’s current flexibility on the right side could be a...

Isaac Paredes emerges as a practical, controllable trade target for the Pittsburgh Pirates—could he be the right-handed bat that fortifies third base? Gary Morgan examines Paredes’ All-Star credentials, positional flexibility, and challenges of fitting his extreme pull power profile at PNC Park. The episode weighs Houston Astros’ crowded infield as a catalyst for a potential move and assesses what acquiring Paredes would cost, comparing his value against current Pirates options like Jared Triolo.

Roster competition heats up as Gary Morgan breaks down misconceptions about Jack Suwinski’s 40-man status, warning fans not to conflate it with a guaran...

Pittsburgh Pirates pivot strategy as free agency options dwindle—can a renewed focus on pitching carry them into contention? Gary Morgan explores the fallout from missing out on top targets for third base, weighing the merits of strengthening the starting rotation with names like Zac Gallen or Justin Verlander. The conversation spotlights Mitch Keller’s critical 2026 role and the implications of relying on defense and run prevention with Jared Triolo as a probable starter.

As MLB takes over more local TV rights, the episode uncovers how shifting broadcast economics could reshape small market teams like the Pirates, impa...

Pittsburgh Pirates miss out on Eugenio Suarez as he signs with the Cincinnati Reds, raising questions about front office strategy and fit. Why did the Pirates’ aggressive pursuit come up short, and was Suarez ever the game-changing bat the team needed? Gary Morgan unpacks how player preference trumped a bidding war and explains why this loss might spare Pittsburgh a costly mistake.

Key topics include the dangers of overvaluing projection models like ZiPS, Steamer, and Marcel—should fans trust the data or trust their eyes? Hear an honest breakdown of how projection systems shape free agency narratives, spot...

Pittsburgh Pirates face their 50-year home run drought—could Oneil Cruz or a rising prospect finally smash the elusive 40-HR mark? Gary Morgan breaks down the organization’s current power hitters, exploring the raw potential of Brandon Lowe, Jack Suwinski, and prospects like Konnor Griffin and Esmerlyn Valdez. Pirates fans craving high-octane offense will find insightful analysis on the system’s best power bets and what sacrifices might be needed for young stars to chase history.

Roster construction, payroll concerns, and player accountability all come under the microscope, with honest takes on Andrew McCutchen’s future, third base que...

Pittsburgh Pirates reshape their bullpen with unprecedented flexibility—can this depth finally anchor a true postseason push? Gary Morgan spotlights how MLB options impact roster construction, examining why Dennis Santana, Gregory Soto, Justin Lawrence, and Johan Ramirez's contract statuses make them lineup fixtures, and which younger arms could force management’s hand. Strategic use of minor league options could give the Pirates a competitive edge—and trigger tough decisions.

Gary Morgan also puts Bryan Reynolds under the microscope after a rollercoaster 2025, breaking down his path toward franchise milestones and a possible rebound year. Plus, hear insights into pivota...

Pittsburgh Pirates' catching depth faces a shakeup as Endy Rodriguez makes a determined return from two major elbow surgeries. Can he reclaim a roster spot amid fierce competition from Henry Davis, Joey Bart, and prospect Rafael Flores? Gary Morgan breaks down Rodriguez’s resilience, the challenges of injury comebacks, and the shifting expectations as the Pirates prioritize experienced depth and youthful upside behind the plate.

Isaac Matson emerges as a bullpen x-factor, transforming last season's 2.45 ERA and dominant fastball into a potential late-inning weapon with a new changeup. Gary Morgan spotlights Matson’s rise, the influence of pitc...

Pittsburgh Pirates inject star power into spring with top prospect Konnor Griffin headlining a non-roster invite list packed with elite young talent. Could Griffin seize the Opening Day shortstop job and anchor the infield, or will Oneil Cruz’s revamped mindset make him the breakout star in the Steel City?

Gary Morgan spotlights rising prospects Termarr Johnson, Duce Gourson, and Omar Alfonzo, alongside veteran arms like Justin Lawrence, breaking down their potential impact on the MLB roster. Key storylines include Griffin's rapid rise through the minors, Cruz’s offseason transformation, and Pittsburgh’s strategic bullpen rebuild. With Pirate...

Pittsburgh Pirates face a crossroads as Andrew McCutchen’s future remains unresolved—will the beloved outfielder get his legendary send-off or is an awkward ending inevitable? With GM Ben Cherington’s guarded statements at Pirates Fest sparking audible groans, the tension between honoring franchise icons and the realities of roster construction intensifies.

Gary Morgan spotlights McCutchen’s impassioned social media response to critics and explores how MLB’s collective bargaining agreement keeps front office talks vague and unsatisfying. Is the Pirates’ offseason strategy sacrificing fan sentiment for marginal gains? Key discussions center on McCutchen’s legacy, Don Kelly’s growin...

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If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Washington Nationals aggressively shop C.J. Abrams—should the Pittsburgh Pirates make a bold move for the dynamic shortstop? Gary Morgan breaks down Abrams’ All-Star credentials, trade rumors, and fit alongside top prospects like Connor Griffin, weighing whether Pittsburgh can afford...

MLB owners wage a high-stakes salary cap battle as record-breaking deals spark fierce debate: Will a real economic reset finally level the playing field for franchises like the Pittsburgh Pirates? Gary Morgan breaks down the forces driving MLB’s looming labor fight and examines why the current system fails most players and fans. Can capped payrolls—and true salary structures—unlock stability and parity across the league?

Key topics include the Dodgers’ payroll dominance, Tony Clark’s union stance, suppressed young player earnings, and the implications for stars like Paul Skenes and Connor Griffin. Gary Morgan explores how a sala...

Pittsburgh Pirates face a crossroads as Andrew McCutchen's future hangs in the balance. Should the front office prioritize veteran leadership and clubhouse stability over raw stats? Gary Morgan unpacks why letting McCutchen walk could be more than just a numbers game, challenging the perception of "pragmatic" roster moves.

The conversation heats up with an inside look at Mason Montgomery’s electric arsenal—can his triple-digit fastball revolutionize the Pirates’ bullpen? Plus, the Hall of Fame stirs debate as Carlos Beltran’s induction reopens questions about cheating, consistency, and baseball’s evolving legacy. Get candid insights on the Pirates’ r...

New York Mets shake up the market with Bo Bichette’s blockbuster signing, potentially creating an opening for the Pittsburgh Pirates to address key roster needs. Can the Pirates exploit Mets’ impatience and land young infield talent like Brett Baty or Mark Vientos to bolster their lineup for a serious playoff push?

Gary Morgan analyzes the fit and cost of Mets’ infielders, weighs the pros and cons of targeting players such as Ronnie Mauricio and Luisangel Acuña, and breaks down how Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn shape Pittsburgh’s lineup balance. Spotlight on Kyle Nicholas reveals the...

Kyle Tucker’s monster contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers sends shockwaves through MLB, raising urgent questions about spending gaps, competitive balance, and the very foundation of the league. Can small and mid-market teams like the Pittsburgh Pirates hope to keep pace, or is the reality of baseball’s economic divide simply too big to ignore? Gary Morgan pulls back the curtain on MLB’s financial disparities, the illusion of “trying,” and why it’s not just Pirates fans feeling the squeeze.

Spotlights shine on Spencer Horowitz as the Pirates’ pivotal first baseman, with predictions on his breakout poten...

Pittsburgh Pirates fans find themselves in a surprising position: too much talent and not enough roster spots. With Rafael Flores pushing for a big-league role, Henry Davis and Joey Bart already in place, and young prospects rising through the ranks, the Bucs face the enviable challenge of making tough choices. Is depth finally a true strength in the Steel City, and what does it mean for the team’s playoff ceiling?

Gary Morgan examines why Flores’ logjam signals a new era for the Pirates, breaks down the organization’s best international signing class in years, and explains how in...

Pittsburgh Pirates’ playoff hopes hinge on Bryan Reynolds’ resurgence—can lineup reinforcements unlock his All-Star form in 2026? Gary Morgan breaks down why Reynolds is primed for a bounce-back season, pointing to improved lineup protection with Ryan O’Hearn and Brandon Lowe, adjustments to MLB pitching strategies, and the end of his isolation as the lone power threat. Plus, hear the statistical trends that signal Reynolds’ best days aren’t behind him, from solid contact rates to defensive metrics.

Roster news heats up with Chase Shugart’s trade to the Phillies and the Pirates’ international signing coups, spotlighting prospects Wilton...

Pittsburgh Pirates face a pivotal offseason, but only Eugenio Suarez offers an immediate upgrade at third base. With Nolan Arenado off the market and options like Alec Bohm, Yoan Moncada, and Isak Paredes presenting more questions than solutions, the pressure mounts for the front office to land a true difference-maker. Should PNC Park tweak its dimensions to spark more right-handed power like Kansas City’s recent changes, or does geometry still favor pitching dominance?

Gary Morgan breaks down the hot corner carousel, dissecting potential trade and free-agent fits while examining the effects of ballpark adjustments on Pittsburgh’s po...

Braxton Ashcraft faces a pivotal season—can he finally secure his spot in the Pittsburgh Pirates rotation, or is a bullpen future inevitable? Gary Morgan unpacks Ashcraft’s battle with repeated injuries, career resurgence post-Tommy John surgery, and the high stakes for 2026 as the Pirates eye rotation stability. With prospects like Bubba Chandler and Hunter Barco waiting in the wings, the competition heats up: who will emerge as Pittsburgh’s breakout star on the mound?

Gary Morgan also tackles burning listener questions on roster moves, the impact of acquiring Joe Nixon Garcia, and the domino effect on outfie...