Locked On Pirates - Daily Podcast On The Pittsburgh Pirates

Pittsburgh Pirates pitchers refuse to challenge Esmerlyn Valdez—has the league finally adjusted, or is Valdez entering the next phase of his MLB ascent? Gary Morgan dissects Valdez’s eye-popping walk rate and why his recent slump might actually signal growth at the plate. As opposing pitchers work the edges and avoid giving Valdez anything to hit, the conversation shifts to lineup protection, evolving scouting reports, and the adjustments Valdez must make to reclaim his power threat.

The bullpen overhaul takes center stage as Gary Morgan breaks down Don Kelly’s new relief options, including pivotal roles for Lu...

Nathan breaks down game two of the series between the Pirates and Brewers. The Pirates offense was quiet tonight besides solo homers from Jacob Gonzalez and Endy Rodriguez. Jared Jones struggled tonight only going 4 innings and allowing 3 runs on 8 hits. The Pirates will look to take game three tomorrow.

Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25.

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, cr...

Pittsburgh Pirates overhaul their bullpen, but is it too late to salvage their playoff hopes? Gary Morgan spotlights Ben Cherrington’s aggressive trades for Camilo Doval, Luke Weaver, Kirby Yates, and Lake Bachar, transforming the Pirates’ relief corps just as the rest of the roster begins to unravel. With a devastating Mitch Keller injury sidelining their only veteran starter, the Pirates’ playoff push now rests on a raw young rotation helmed by Paul Skenes, Jared Jones, Braxton Ashcraft, and Bubba Chandler.

Can a rebuilt bullpen overcome glaring rotational depth issues and the lack of a reliable right-handed bat? G...

Nathan breaks down game one of the series between the Pirates and Brewers. Bubba Chandler started strong against the Brew Crew where he went 4.2 innings of no-hit ball, however, would go 5.2 innings and allow 2 earned runs. Spencer Horwitz cleared the based with a double in the 3rd to provide a chunk of the offense. The Pirates will look to take game two in Milwaukee tomorrow night.

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a hom...

Pittsburgh Pirates face a crucial crossroads as the MLB trade deadline looms, but is roster continuity enough to spark a playoff push? Gary Morgan spotlights the team’s youth-heavy starting rotation—featuring Paul Skenes, Jared Jones, Bubba Chandler, and Braxton Ashcraft—and questions if Mitch Keller can rebound or if it’s time for a bullpen role. With the bullpen faltering and a lopsided lineup lacking right-handed thump, the Pirates’ path to October grows murkier.

Key discussion points include Oneil Cruz’s upcoming return, Carmen Mlodzinski’s evolving bullpen role, and the front office’s reluctance to invest mid-seaso...

Mitch Keller got just six outs in this one as he was hit hard for seven runs allowed on six hits and four walks in a 10-2 loss in Cincinnati. The bats, on the other hand, couldn’t touch Reds starter Chase Burns as he carved up the Bucs for just one run allowed on two hits in six innings and he struck out nine. Pirates managed just four hits in this loss to drop back under .500 with a 1-3 roadtrip so far.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it o...

Nathan breaks down game three of the series between the Pirates and Reds. Braxton Ashcraft was solid in a bounce back performance where he went 5 innings and allowed 1 run. Carmen Mlodzinski would follow with 3 shutout innings of relief after the 1 hour and 46-minute rain delay. The Pirates offense was able to get to Andrew Abbott with a 3-run 3rd inning. The Pirates will look to split the series with Mitch Keller on the mound going against Reds young star Chase Burns.

For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up...

Nathan and Ryan break down game two of the series between the Pirates and Reds in another loss. Paul Skenes did not look like his CY Young self-tonight in a no decision effort on the mound. The offense tried to comeback but the bullpen had their 20th blown save. Ryan O'Hearn gets injured in the 9th and it does not look good.

Everydayer Club
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...

Pittsburgh Pirates enter the MLB trade deadline as buyers for the first time in years, with playoff hopes driving a bold new approach. Can a deal for Luke Weaver or Robbie Ray transform the pitching staff, or will prospect cost force Ben Cherrington’s hand? Gary Morgan weighs the pros and cons of parting with rising talents like Sammy Stafura and Murph Gray as the Pirates target crucial bullpen reinforcements.

Key discussions center on Nick Gonzales' defensive struggles versus his offensive necessity, the outlook on Oneil Cruz’s role, and how adding proven arms like Jeff Hoffman coul...

The Reds squeaked out a run in the bottom of the 9th inning to walk off the Pirates 3-2 in the first game of a huge road series. The Pirates went with a bullpen in the series opener with Yohan Ramirez starting and firing two scoreless frames. Hunter Barco gave up two runs in the 3rd inning to put the Pirates in a hole and then Noah Murdock made his MLB debut and pitched two scoreless innings. Brandon Lowe tied the game in the 6th inning with his 23rd home run of the season. The Pirates offense and Lowe...

Pittsburgh Pirates’ once-powerful offense sputters at a crucial juncture—can they snap out of their slump before the trade deadline? Gary Morgan spotlights glaring struggles against left-handed pitching, the impact of Oneil Cruz’s absence, and whether names like Marcell Ozuna and Billy Cook are still part of the Pirates’ postseason equation.

With the Cincinnati Reds looming, Gary Morgan explores potential trade targets—Tyler Stephenson, Brady Singer, and bullpen options like Caleb Ferguson—and debates what it will take for the Pirates to patch their lineup and push for October. AMAs tackle burning questions on player usage, Don Kelly’s...

Arizona left-handed starter Eduardo Rodriguez shut down the Bucs bats in this one and there was no comeback in a 3-0 loss to drop a pivotal series against the Diamondbacks. Rodriguez went eight strong shutout innings on just five hits and no extra-base hits. Jared Jones tossed a quality start with three runs allowed in six innings but the bats got him no run support. The Pirates are now 55-54 and fall two games behind the Diamondbacks in the NL wildcard race.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it of...

Pittsburgh Pirates ignite PNC Park with a jaw-dropping late comeback but fall short in 12 innings against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Can Bryan Reynolds and Brandon Lowe’s clutch heroics propel the team into true playoff contention, or will defensive lapses and lineup frustrations derail their momentum?

Gary Morgan recaps the Pirates’ heart-pounding 8-7 loss, dissecting Bo Chandler’s tough start, Nick Gonzalez’s multi-hit magic, and the struggles at third base and in the outfield. The conversation spotlights the team's need to stack wins amid a heated playoff chase, examines Brandon Fott’s dominance, and explores the emotional impact of...

Nathan breaks down game two of the series between the Pirates and Diamondbacks. Bubba Chandler was hit for weak contact in a short 4 inning outing. Chandler allowed 5 runs, 4 of which earned, walked 1 and struck out 3. The Pirates offense was able to rally in the 8th and 9th innings where Brandon Lowe and Bryan Reynolds would tie the game up on back-to-back homers.

Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25.

F...

Pittsburgh Pirates electrify PNC Park with a dramatic 3-2 walk-off win over the Arizona Diamondbacks, fueled by Brandon Lowe’s clutch hitting and a bullpen that finally looks to be steadying. As the playoff race intensifies, can Ben Cherrington’s focus on proven relief arms like Luke Weaver and AJ Minter transform the Pirates’ postseason chances?

Gary Morgan examines Esmerlyn Valdez’s injury scare, Mason Montgomery’s emergence as a late-inning force, and vital moves like the acquisition of Jonathan Rodriguez for organizational depth. The episode spotlights statistical oddities in day vs. night games, provides trade proposals involving...

Nathan breaks down game one of the series between the Pirates and Diamondbacks. Mitch Keller was solid for a second straight outing after the break. Only giving up 2 runs in the no decision. The Pirates would go on to walk off the game thanks to Brandon Lowe. Esmerlyn Valdez would leave the game with an injury.

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season. 

This Back To School...

Pittsburgh Pirates eye a statement sweep as the playoff race intensifies. Can Mitch Keller anchor the rotation and spark the Bucs past the Arizona Diamondbacks in a pivotal Wild Card showdown? Gary Morgan dissects why this series transcends the standings, revealing what needs to happen for Pittsburgh to prove they belong in October conversations.

Key topics include the Pirates' trade deadline outlook—are Ben Cherrington’s buyers ready to pull the trigger?—plus sharp analysis of bullpen concerns, Spencer Horwitz and Endy Rodriguez's potential returns, and why team control and contract status matter in trade speculation. Explore the vo...

The Pirates bat finally woke up with three home runs including a grand slam by Ryan O'Hearn to lead the Bucs to an 8-7 win over the Cubs. The win salvages a game in the series, avoid the sweep and moves them back to two games over .500. Braxton Ashcraft had an up and down outing but goes six innings for the win and was able to steady the ship and produce two huge shutdown innings to finish his outing. Mason Montgomery gave up two in the 9th but nails down his second save of the season.

Everydayer...

Nathan breaks down game two of the series between the Pirates and Cubs. The Pirates offense continued to struggle as Cubs starter Shota Imanaga continued his dominance over the team. Paul Skenes allowed 5 runs and struck out 11 in the effort today. The Pirates will look to avoid the sweep tomorrow.

Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25.

Check out the ICON collection from Stance—premium comfort, performance, and durab...

The Pirates fall to the Cubs 3-2 in 10 innings after falling to record an extra base hit all game. Dansby Swanson laced an RBI single into center field where Ian Happ just beat the tag at the plate to give the Cubs a 2-1 lead in the top of the 10th inning. Jared Jones and Matthew Boyd were entrenched in a pitcher’s duel as Jones went six strong innings with just two hits allowed, one walk and five strikeouts. Henry Davis went 2-for-3 with an RBI infield single to score the Bucs first run. Pete-Crow Armstrong tied the ga...

Pittsburgh Pirates eye playoff push as Esmerlyn Valdez emerges as a force and key lineup changes loom. Will rising stars and bold trade rumors propel the Bucs past the competition?

Gary Morgan answers a barrage of fan questions on Valdez’s plate discipline, concerns over Braxton Ashcraft’s innings management, and the slumping Brandon Lowe. The show tackles bullpen usage issues with Carmen Mlodzinski, the future of veterans like Marcel Ozuna, and the club’s trade deadline strategy—highlighting names like Mason Miller, Tarik Skubal, and A.J. Minter. Inside insights abound on the amateur draft haul, the loss...

Pittsburgh Pirates' playoff hopes hang in the balance as overmanagement overshadows stellar starts from Mitch Keller and Bubba Chandler. Why are aces being pulled early when the bullpen wobbles, and is the reliance on pregame plans costing vital wins? Gary Morgan questions the team's mentality and challenges Don Kelly’s approach, asking whether it’s time to trust talent instead of the spreadsheet.

The conversation dives into Keller and Chandler's standout outings against MLB powerhouses like the New York Yankees, emphasizing the need for the Pirates to shed their underdog mindset and compete as playoff contenders. Player fati...

Nathan breaks down today's double header that wrapped up the series between the Pirates and Yankees. Bubba Chandler shined in game two, however the offense and Brandon Eisert not so much. In game one today, Mitch Keller had his best start in a while with 5 shutout innings, as the Pirates won in extras. The Bucs split the double header and drop the series to the Yankees. They will take a .500 road trip and will head back home to PNC Park to face the Cubs.

Amazon
This Back To School Season, spend less on your kid...

Pittsburgh Pirates eye a playoff surge as the MLB trade deadline approaches—will Ben Cherington make the aggressive moves needed to fortify the roster? Gary Morgan spotlights pitching as the true x-factor, exploring targets like Robbie Ray, Kevin Gausman, Jose Soriano, and Freddy Peralta to boost October depth. He breaks down why outfield, first base, and third base aren’t urgent needs after recent additions, shifting the spotlight to the rotation and bullpen.

Key segments feature analysis of Luke Weaver, Andrew Kittredge, Daniel Lynch, Adrian Morejón, and AJ Minter as potential bullpen reinforcements. With injury risks loomi...

Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Braxton Ashcraft hits a rough patch as major league hitters figure him out—can he make the crucial adjustments before the season slips away? Meanwhile, rookie Esmerlyn Valdez launches a historic power surge, blasting 14 home runs in just 32 games and rapidly emerging as a top contender for National League Rookie of the Year.

Gary Morgan breaks down Ashcraft’s mechanical struggles, fatigue issues, and the league’s counterattack, raising critical questions about the Pirates’ pitching depth and the front office’s trade deadline strategy. The discussion spotlights Valdez’s game-changing at-bats, how his presence is reshaping...

Nathan breaks down game one of the series between the Pirates and Yankees. Bad defense, a bad Braxton Ashcraft start and a quiet offense after a quick comeback led to tonight's 8-5 loss at Yankee stadium. The Pirates will look to bounce back tomorrow night with Bubba Chandler on the hill.

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season. 

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. ...

Pittsburgh Pirates surge into the NL Wild Card race after a statement series win over the Cleveland Guardians—can Paul Skenes and Esmerlyn Valdez fuel a true playoff push? Gary Morgan breaks down how elite starting pitching, big bats from Valdez and Nick Gonzales, and a resilient mindset put the Bucs directly into postseason position.

Key questions swirl around a struggling bullpen—will Gregory Soto and Dennis Santana be enough, or is it time to overhaul the relief strategy? With the MLB trade deadline looming, Gary Morgan covers which prospects are truly untouchable, clarifies the reality of the...

Billy Cook went 3-for-4 with 2 RBIs and Paul Skenes goes 7 innings as the Pirates win 7-1 and take the series over the Guardians in Cleveland. Cook did it with the defense and offense today as he had an outfield assist to nail the runner at home and had a triple, scored two runs and drove in two. Skenes scattered seven hits across seven innings and struck out eight in the win. Esmerlyn Valdez belted his 12th home run late in the game to put the Pirates up 7-1.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode...

The Pirates had a chance at a doubleheader sweep, but the bullpen blew a 3-0 lead to lose game two 5-3 and end up splitting the twin bill with the Guardians. The Pirates won game 1 earlier on Saturday afternoon 7-1 as Jared Jones struck out 9 in five innings and Esmerlyn Valdez, Nick Gonzales and Jacob Gonzalez all belted home runs for the Bucs. The Pirates move to 51-48 and will have a rubber match with the Guardians Sunday afternoon.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Lo...

Pittsburgh Pirates surge past expectations, boasting a revamped offense and dominant rotation. Can Paul Skenes and Bryan Reynolds lead Pittsburgh into the heart of the postseason race? Gary Morgan spotlights the club’s transformation, from a relentless batting order featuring Ryan O’Hearn and Brandon Lowe to a pitching staff anchored by Skenes and emerging arms like Braxton Ashcraft and Jared Jones.

Key topics include the Pirates’ playoff calculus, their bullpen’s lingering flaws, and the mounting salary cap debate that could reshape MLB’s future. Gary Morgan breaks down how the Pirates stack up against the Cleveland...

Pittsburgh Pirates face mounting questions as advanced analytics reshape their on-field approach. Can the balance between data-driven strategy and player adaptability fuel a playoff push, or will overreliance on historical trends hold them back? Insights into Braxton Ashcraft’s elite slider and Isaac Matson’s pitch sequencing highlight the high-stakes chess match between theory and real-time adjustments.

Gary Morgan examines the impact of run value metrics, debates the true meaning of strength of schedule, and explores the Pirates’ recent favorable matchups—like their 6-1 record against the Brewers. With trade deadline drama approaching and key series looming against...

Pittsburgh Pirates face a pivotal MLB trade deadline with Oneil Cruz at the center of swirling speculation—should the team consider moving their electrifying star for much-needed pitching? Gary Morgan breaks down the unpredictable buyer-seller landscape, spotlighting contenders like the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, and surprises in both leagues. With the Pirates’ rising offensive firepower courtesy of names like Ryan O’Hearn, Brandon Lowe, and Esmerlyn Valdez, Morgan asks: Is it time to cash in a unique asset to address glaring pitching gaps?

Key topics include Mitch Keller’s trade value, front office strategy...

Pittsburgh Pirates’ playoff hopes hang in the balance as preseason predictions face the ultimate test. Will Paul Skenes, Braxton Ashcraft, and Oneil Cruz’s All-Star caliber performances carry the team to 85 wins, or will unexpected injuries and slumps derail the season? Gary Morgan revisits his bold forecasts for team MVP, breakout players, and rookie standouts—owning both the hits and misses as the Pirates chase a wild card spot.

Gary Morgan breaks down Pittsburgh’s evolving player-centric philosophy, spotlighting the controversy around Carmen Mlodzinski’s role and the impact of front office decisions on roster stability. Key topics inc...

Pittsburgh Pirates surge into playoff contention with a thrilling sweep of the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers, sparked by Esmerlyn Valdez’s explosive grand slam and Paul Skenes’ gritty outing. Can this dynamic offense maintain its momentum as key players return from injury?

Gary Morgan breaks down the Pirates’ 50-win first half, spotlighting Valdez’s breakout, the emergence of impact bats, and a lineup that’s suddenly feared across Major League Baseball. Discussion covers the team’s dominance against NL Central rivals, new challenges posed by left-handed pitching, and standout performances by Seth Hernandez and Edward Florentino at the Futures Game...

Nathan breaks down the finale of the weekend series between the Pirates and Brewers. The Pirates offense put together a 10-run inning in the 4th and that's all it took today. Henry Davis and Marcell Ozuna both went yard. Paul Skenes looked solid in his last start of the first half. He went 5.1 innings allowed 2 runs and struck out 7 with 1 walk. The Pirates end their first half on a high note with a sweep of the first-place Brewers and will head to Cleveland to take on the Guardians this upcoming weekend.

FanDuel
Today's episode i...

The Pirates sweep the Brewers in a doubleheader today winning game one 8-7 and game two 3-2. Valdez clubbed two home runs in game 1, including a go-ahead grand slam in the 7th inning to put the Buccos up for good 8-7. Valdez followed it up with a two-run homer in game 2 to put the Pirates on the board for his 10th homer in just 27 games. Braxton Ashcraft struggled in game 1, allowing five runs in five innings and Bubba Chandler only went 4.2 innings and gave up two runs in game 2, struck out six but walked three.

Hosted...

Pittsburgh Pirates face a crossroads as Don Kelly navigates his first full season at the helm—has organizational philosophy become the biggest roadblock to true contention? With the offense surging behind the likes of Oneil Cruz, Jake Mangum, and Ryan O'Hearn, questions loom over the Pirates’ bullpen management and the heavy reliance on analytics over gut decisions.

Gary Morgan scrutinizes Don Kelly’s coaching staff shakeups, the controversial move from Oscar Marin to Bill Murphy, and the uneven integration of young talent like Esperlin Valdez and Tyler Callahan. The episode spotlights persistent bullpen struggles, including the use of Den...

We'll be live immediately following the final out for our instant reaction. Mitch Keller struggled in today's matchup, only going 3 innings and allowing 3 runs with 2 walks. Dennis Santana also continued to show his struggles this year in relief efforts. Jake Mangum, Bryan Reynolds, and Esmerlyn Valdez all went yard in the comeback efforts. The Pirates will welcome the Brewers to town to start a weekend series tomorrow.

Odoo
Today's episode is brought to you by Odoo. Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at...

Pittsburgh Pirates lose Konnor Griffin to the IL, but panic isn’t the answer. Should the team trade for a shortstop or trust internal depth? Gary Morgan breaks down why Jared Triolo, Nick Gonzales, and Jack Brannigan are up to the challenge, and pushes back against costly trade targets like Willy Adames and Trevor Story. The episode compares Griffin’s current defensive output to Triolo’s, highlighting the Pirates’ offensive depth and arguing roster stability over reactionary moves.

The spotlight turns to Ryan O’Hearn, whose historic performance against Atlanta has fans asking if he’s already the franchis...

The Pirates three-game winning streak is snapped with a 3-0 loss to the Braves after Jared Jones was pulled with a perfect game. Jones went six perfect innings with 8 strikeouts, but was pulled due to a strict pitch count at 77 pitches. Former Pirates catcher Joey Bart hit a 2-run home run off Dennis Santana to give the Braves a 3-0 victory. The offense for the Pirates had just four hits and no extra-base hits against Braves starter Grant Holmes and the Braves bullpen.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it...