Locked On Pirates - Daily Podcast On The Pittsburgh Pirates

Pittsburgh Pirates shake up their pitching staff after players demand a new voice—has the change unlocked their true potential? Gary Morgan scrutinizes the impact of Bill Murphy replacing Oscar Marin as pitching coach, examining whether star Paul Skenes and the rotation are finally reaching elite form or if the same old issues linger. The show raises critical questions about the disconnect between player demands, front office decisions, and actual performance on the mound.

Key topics include bullpen construction failures, the roles of Braxton Ashcraft, Gregory Soto, and Wilbur Dotel, and Don Kelly's management style under pressure. Ga...

The Pirates followed a usual script for a loss with their defense and bullpen letting them down in an 8-3 loss to Miami. Wilber Dotel was the culprit in this one giving up four runs in 1.2 innings. Braxton Ashcraft allowed two runs in five innings and exited in a 2-2 game. Endy Rodriguez recorded two hits and belted his second home run of the season and Antwone Kelly made his MLB debut and gave up two runs in 2.1 innings.

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

Pittsburgh Pirates face mounting questions as Mitch Keller’s inconsistency clouds their rotation. Is Keller simply regressing, or can he rediscover his form when the team needs it most? Gary Morgan breaks down the right-hander’s perplexing numbers—highlighting alarming issues with Keller’s pitch mix, rising walk rates, and a worrying inability to retire left-handed hitters. With Keller calling his own games and struggles mounting, adjustments behind the plate and on the mound may be imminent for the Pirates’ supposed innings-eater.

Rising prospect Antoine Kelly receives a call-up as Pittsburgh scrambles for reliable bullpen arms, while Rafael Flo...

The Pirates rallied again in this one, but the comeback came up just short as the fall 8-6 to drop the series to the Dodgers. Mitch Keller started this one and was rocked for five runs in four innings making it a long night for the bullpen. The Pirates offense battled back and cut the lead to 5-4 and 8-6. Rafael Flores hit his first MLB home run and drove in two runs. Brandon Lowe belted his team-leading 16th home run of the season.

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit t...

Pittsburgh Pirates shock the Los Angeles Dodgers with a dramatic five-run comeback, powered by Tyler Callahan’s unforgettable first MLB home run off Shohei Ohtani. Is this the momentum shift Pirates fans have been waiting for?

Gary Morgan breaks down the Pirates’ resilience amidst mounting injuries, including the setback to Oneil Cruz and key updates on Endy Rodriguez and Joey Bart. The episode spotlights standout contributions from Brandon Lowe and Spencer Horowitz, questions the team’s depth, and explores the 2026 Pirates Hall of Fame class—Wilbur Cooper, John Candelaria, and Jack Wilson. From roster adversity to historical mileston...

The Pirates snap a four-game losing streak as they rally from five down to defeat the Dodgers 9-6. Tyler Callihan clubbed two home runs, one of Shohei Ohtani, for four RBIs to give the Pirates the lead in the bottom of the 8th. Jared Jones went four strong innings with one run allowed. The Pirates chased Ohtani from the game in the 7th inning after scoring four runs off him, but still trailed 6-4 until Callihan’s 3-run bomb in the 8th. Ohtani homered off of Gregory Soto in the 9th to cut it to 9-8, but Soto got th...

Pittsburgh Pirates bullpen meltdown overshadows Paul Skenes’ strong outing as Los Angeles Dodgers erupt for ten runs in a single inning. Can the Pirates’ pitching staff rebound before their playoff hopes unravel?

Gary Morgan breaks down the disastrous seventh inning, spotlighting struggles from Wilbur Dotel and a relief corps plagued by inconsistency and lack of leadership. Insights include injury updates on Oneil Cruz and Brandon Lau, questions surrounding Bill Murphy’s bullpen management, and whether the Pirates should call up Esmeralda Valdez. Key topics also feature coaching dynamics, affiliate park factors, and fans’ frustrations with roster decisions. Where do...

Nathan breaks down game one of the series between the Pirates and Dodgers. After Paul Skenes went 6 solid innings of work, the Pirates bullpen allowed 10 runs in the top of the 7th inning. Ryan O'Hearn and Bryan Reynolds would hit back-to-back homers in the first but that wouldn't be enough for the Pirates. Jared Jones will face Shohei Ohtani tomorrow as the Pirates will look to bounce back in game two against the Dodgers.

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https://5hourENERGY.comor on Amazon...

Pittsburgh Pirates’ playoff hopes hinge on winter roster planning as bullpen struggles, starting rotation inconsistency, and untapped prospect potential define the season. Can Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller stabilize a shaky rotation, or will injuries and missed opportunities force the front office’s hand before the trade deadline? Gary Morgan spotlights the makeup of Pittsburgh’s bullpen, pressing the need for veteran arms, while questioning whether high-leverage roles can be filled internally.

Emerging talents like third baseman Murph Gray and outfielder Lonnie White Jr. are making noise in the minors, tempting roster shakeups as Esmerlin Valdez’s power ba...

Atlanta Braves sweep Pittsburgh Pirates with relentless execution—can the Pirates ever close the gap? Gary Morgan breaks down how the Braves’ elite lineup punished every Pirates mistake, from Mitch Keller’s struggles to Michael Harris II’s decisive pinch-hit double, exposing Pittsburgh’s razor-thin margin for error against the National League’s best.

Roster shake-ups continue to impact the Pirates, with Brandon Lowe and Oneil Cruz battling injuries and Bubba Chandler’s performance proving both promising and perplexing. Morgan examines the rationale behind recent call-ups and demotions, discusses the financial constraints driving Ben Cherington’s moves, and answers fan...

Nathan breaks down the finale of the three-game series between the Pirates and Braves. Mason Montgomery opened the game and Bubba Chandler followed. However, the Braves were able to plate 3 in the 7th inning. The offense had multiple opportunities to score more but couldn't make things happen. The Pirates will head back to PNC Park to welcome the back-to-back World Series Champion Dodgers.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel.Visithttps://FANDUEL.COMto get started now.
 

FA...

Pirates starter Braxton Ashcraft had his worst start of the season, allowing six runs as the Pirates lost their second consecutive game to the Braves 6-3. The Pirates trailed 3-0 early in this one, but the offense battled back to tie it at 3-3, but Ashcraft wasn’t able to hold the tie game as he gave up a 3-run home run to Dominic Smith. Nick Gonzales went 2-for-4 with a run scored and RBI. Brandon Lowe left the game in the 9th inning after fouling a pitch off his knee and needed help off the field. 

Eve...

Nathan breaks down game one of the series between the Pirates and Braves. Pirates starter Mitch Keller struggles in the game, only managing 4.2 innings of work while allowing 6 runs. The Pirates offense put up 3 runs in the 3rd inning but was quiet the rest of the game. The Pirates will look to bounce back in game two tomorrow.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get...

Pittsburgh Pirates answer a crushing bullpen collapse with a statement series win over the Houston Astros. Can this resilient squad transform power surges into playoff contention? Gary Morgan breaks down Jared Jones’ dominant return, Ryan O’Hearn’s clutch home run, and Bryan Reynolds’ consistent hitting, spotlighting how the Pirates’ layered offense and rotation depth are redefining expectations in the National League.

Key topics include the impact of 74 home runs before June 4th, comparisons to the 1999 "Bomba Squad," and the critical role of bullpen management with arms like Mason Montgomery and Gregory Soto. Gary Morgan discusses the evolving c...

The Pirates bounced back as Jared Jones tossed five scoreless innings and Ryan O’Hearn homered to defeat the Astros 5-1 and win the series in Houston. O’Hearn drove in the first run of the game in the 1st inning to give the Bucs an early 1-0 lead and he finished with two hits and three RBIs. Carmen Mlodzinski came in after Jones went five and shut the door down with four innings and one run allowed for the save.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join t...

Nathan breaks down game two of the series between the Pirates and Astros. The Pirates bullpen blew it in Houston in the bottom of the 8th. Henry Davis and Nick Gonzales both homered in the loss. The Pirates will look to win the series tomorrow.

KALSHI
For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.  

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one...

Pittsburgh Pirates fans finally have a real reason to fill out their MLB All-Star ballots with pride. Could a new era of legit All-Star representation be dawning in Pittsburgh? Gary Morgan highlights Spencer Horwitz’s breakout season, Brandon Lowe’s dominance at second base, and Nick Gonzales’ case for third—each making a surprising push against big names like Freddie Freeman and Matt Olson.

The discussion breaks down the Pirates’ strongest All-Star contenders across the National League ballot, weighing the impact of stats, fan voting quirks, and name recognition. On the pitching side, Paul Skenes looks like a lock, wh...

Pittsburgh Pirates crush Houston Astros with a 10-run outburst, but bullpen woes refuse to fade. Can the Bucs maintain their playoff momentum with an inconsistent relief corps? Gary Morgan spotlights Bubba Chandler’s growth, Wilbur Dotel’s breakout, and Dennis Santana’s struggles, questioning if this pitching mix can hold under pressure.

Key topics include the Pirates’ offensive upside with Bryan Reynolds and Spencer Horwitz, strategic concerns around trade deadline inactivity, Paul Skenes’ search for dominance, and the fierce NL Central race. Gary Morgan weighs the top five reasons for optimism and doubt in the Pirates’ playoff push, raisin...

The Pirates rallied for two early deficits to come back and rip the Astros 10-4 in the first game of the series. Oneil Cruz hit a massive three-run homer in the 6th inning that flipped the script and gave the Pirates a lead  where they never looked back. Brandon Lowe and Endy Rodriguez also homered in this one. Bubba Chandler started and struggled at times, but got through five innings and took the win.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get...

Pittsburgh Pirates brace for a defining road trip as Bubba Chandler faces Mike Burrows and the struggling Houston Astros, with Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers looming next. Can the Pirates capitalize on Houston’s shaky bullpen and sustain momentum after sweeping the Twins? Gary Morgan spotlights Jordan Alvarez trade rumors, the urgent need for bullpen help, and Pittsburgh’s top-five MLB offense, challenging the narrative that this is the same old Pirates team.

Morgan also reflects on the enduring heartbreak and hope of being a lifelong Pirates fan, contrasting past letdowns with optimism for this season’s elit...

Pittsburgh Pirates face clubhouse drama as Carmen Mlodzinski lands on the restricted list after refusing a bullpen role, raising tough questions about player control and team dynamics. Can the Pirates maintain unity amid this high-profile standoff, or will it derail their tight pitching rotation strategy down the stretch?

Host Gary Morgan spotlights the Pirates’ thrilling sweep of the Minnesota Twins, Braxton Ashcraft’s breakout as the team’s steadiest starter, and how injuries to Konnor Griffin are creating roster dilemmas. Hot topics include the ascension order of Nick Yorke vs. Callahan, bullpen adjustment strategies, and whether Andrew McCutc...

Nathan breaks down the finale of the weekend series between the Pirates and Twins. Braxton Ashcraft yet again put together a solid outing, where he struck out 11 Twins batters in 6 innings. Ryan O'Hearn in his first at bat off the injured list hit a HR, and the rest of the offense kept up the momentum. The Pirates will head to Houston and Atlanta this week to kick off the month of June.

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 o...

The Pirates blew a 7-1 lead early, but the offense continued to rake to pull ahead to win a 10-9 game over the Twins. Mitch Keller had a 7-1 lead and blew it quickly as he gave up seven earned runs in four innings. Oneil Cruz, Spencer Horwitz and Jake Mangum all homered in this one to lead the offense as they collected 15 hits and 10 runs in the victory. Gregory Soto nailed down his 7th save by registering the last four outs.

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

Nathan breaks down game one of the weekend series between the Pirates and Twins. Bryan Reynolds slugged a 2-run WALK OFF Home Run to defeat the Twins 6-5 in Derek Shelton's return to PNC Park. Jared JUones struggled in his first start since 2024, but the offense picked him up along with a shutdown bullpen. Oneil Cruz hit the 7th Homer into the Allegheny River on the fly in the history of PNC Park.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 o...

Pittsburgh Pirates spiral as bullpen chaos and tough roster decisions threaten momentum. Paul Skenes delivers another electric start with 10 strikeouts, while Bryan Reynolds keeps his hot streak alive—yet another late-game meltdown exposes critical relief pitching woes. With injuries to Konnor Griffin and Nick Gonzales forcing unexpected call-ups like Tyler Callahan, and shaky performances from Yohan Ramirez and Justin Lawrence, is the Pirates’ season teetering on the brink?

Gary Morgan breaks down the Pirates’ pitching carousel as Carmen Mlodzinski moves to the bullpen, Jared Jones takes the mound, and Bubba Chandler stays put. The episode also spotlights MLB’s...

The Pirates defense fell apart in the 6th inning to chase Paul Skenes as the Pirates drop one to the Cubs 7-2. The bats were silent for most of the game besides a Bryan Reynolds solo shot and a Tyler Callihan RBI double in his Pirates debut. Ian Happ continued his Pirates assault with three hits, a home run and two RBIs. 

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 o...

Pittsburgh Pirates face a critical development crossroads as Bubba Chandler struggles on the mound—should the team send him to Triple-A or try a bullpen reset? Gary Morgan highlights Chandler’s mental and mechanical challenges, the growing tension between player growth and playoff ambition, and why a temporary demotion might unlock his potential. Meanwhile, the Pirates’ bullpen woes continue to derail close games, as Johan Ramirez and Lawrence battle inconsistency.

Brandon Lowe emerges as an All-Star lock, leading the charge with elite power numbers and all-around play, positioning himself as the National League’s top second baseman. Topics a...

The Pirates bullpen imploded again as they are blown out 10-4 to the Cubs as the Cubs snap a 10-game losing streak. Bubba Chandler struggled again in this one with four runs allowed on eight hits and two walks in five innings of work. Brandon Lowe hit his team-leading 14th home run to tie the game in the 3rd inning and Konnor Griffin homered for his 4th blast of the season.

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, ac...

Pittsburgh Pirates impress as Braxton Ashcraft delivers another dominant outing, shrugging off defensive miscues while showcasing poise and grit rarely seen since Joe Musgrove. Can Ashcraft anchor this rotation with Jared Jones returning and a playoff push in sight?

Gary Morgan breaks down the Pirates’ evolving lineup, emerging young stars like Esmerlyn Valdez and Password Garcia, and the mounting roster crunch as Ryan O’Hearn’s return looms. Key topics include strategic rotation changes, Marcelo Ozuna’s struggles, and how Don Kelly navigates a complex bullpen amid rising expectations. Will Braxton Ashcraft secure an extension—and can the Pirate...

Nathan breaks down game two of the four game series between the Pirates and Cubs. The Pirates bats had a great night on Star Wars night as they blew out the Cubs 12-1. Braxton Ashcraft yet again put together an efficient outing. The Pirates will look to take the series in game three of the four game series tomorrow.

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at https://Indeed.com/podcast

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sw...

Gary Morgan discusses the Pirates power potential and compare and contrasts vs the rest of MLB.

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 our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

5-Hour ENERGY
Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available...

The Pirates snuck out a 2-1 win over the Cubs to open their seven-game homestand on Memorial Day. Carmen Mlodzinski pitched 5 solid innings with Wilber Dotel and Gregory Soto following in the bullpen. Henry Davis hit a go-ahead home run to win the game for the Pirates.

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 our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s commun...

Pittsburgh Pirates’ lineup struggles against left-handed pitching are no secret—does Don Kelly’s constant lineup juggling make things better or worse? Gary Morgan exposes the underlying issues causing the Pirates to stall against southpaws, from shaky roster construction to the ongoing debate about balancing power right-handed bats like Nick Gonzales and Password Garcia. Should the Pirates stick with their regulars, or does matching up by handedness guarantee success?

The crucial series against the slumping Chicago Cubs arrives at a pivotal moment. With Braxton Ashcraft, Bubba Chandler, and Paul Skenes set to take the mound, can the Pirate...

The Pirates and Mitch Keller stopped a two-game skid and avoided the sweep with a 4-1 win over the Blue Jays. Keller tossed six strong innings with one run allowed for his 5th win. The Pirates also belted three home runs including Esmerlyn Valdez who recorded his first MLB hit which was a two-run home run to help the Bucs secure the win. Gregory Soto pitched a scoreless 9th inning to earn his 5th save.

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

Nathan breaks down game two of the weekend series between the Pirates and Blue Jays. Patrick Crobin shoved against the Pirates in the loss to the Blue Jays. The Pirates fall back to .500 and as of late are looking exactly like a .500 team. The Pirates will look to salvage game three and a .500 road trip tomorrow.

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at https://Indeed.com/podcast

HIMS
To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care f...

Nathan breaks down game one of the weekend series between the Pirates and Blue Jays. Bubba Chandler had a solid start, but his defense didn't help him. The young bats were all over the lineup today but didn't have the greatest day in Canada. Dennis Santana struggled in the 9th inning yet again. The Pirates will look to bounce back with Paul Skenes on the mound tomorrow.

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at https://Indeed.com/podcast

H...

Pittsburgh Pirates signal a bold new direction with the call-up of power-hitting prospect Esmerlyn Valdez, raising the stakes for the team’s playoff aspirations. Can Valdez and fellow newcomer Garcia inject enough right-handed power to reshape the Pirates’ offense while Ryan O’Hearn recovers? Gary Morgan breaks down Valdez’s meteoric rise, the strategic decision to move on from Billy Cook, and what these roster moves reveal about the organization’s commitment to upside and winning now.

Key topics include how Valdez could shift the Pirates’ lineup, where he fits defensively alongside Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz, and why play...

Braxton Ashcraft struck out a career high 9 and went seven strong innings to lead the Pirates past the Cardinals 6-2 to take a series from the Cardinals. Brandon Lowe homered for his team-leading 13th blast and Henry Davis belted a solo home run as well. The Bucs also saw production from Marcell Ozuna who had two hits and drove in two runs.

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 silenced the St. Louis Cardinals with a 7-0 bounceback win—are they quietly boasting one of MLB's best offenses? Gary Morgan examines powerful nights from Konnor Griffin, Nick Gonzales, and Spencer Horowitz, plus analyzes Don Kelly’s latest lineup changes that balanced contact, power, and pressure atop the order.

Key topics include the Pirates’ surprising rankings in OPS, walks, and stolen bases, the depth of lineup production with seven players topping 20 RBIs, and whether bullpen woes—not struggling bats like Henry Davis or Marcell Ozuna—are holding this club back. The mailbag covers bullpen usage planning...

Nathan breaks down game two of the series between the Pirates and Cardinals. The Young Bucs on the Pirates Offense came through in a big way in a 7-0 win. Carmen Mlodzinski put together an efficient outing, and the bullpen followed with four shutout innings of relief.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game.
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select...