Locked On Pirates - Daily Podcast On The Pittsburgh Pirates

Is Don Kelly actually a good manager, or just better than Derek Shelton? We break down his record, the Pirates’ reliance on Paul Skenes, and how this six-year stretch compares to the worst in MLB history.

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Gary Morgan breaks down the Pirates’ current infield usage and projects who’s earned a job for 2026. He answers a listener question about mental health support in pro sports and previews early 40-man roster decisions, including Hunter Barco and Brandon Bidois.

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Gary Morgan goes off on Oneil Cruz’s disappointing season and questions whether he can be part of the Pirates’ future core. He also honors Roberto Clemente on his day and asks fans to share their stories for a future tribute episode. Finally, he breaks down Ji-Hwan Bae’s confusing recall and what it says about the team’s direction.

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What if the Pittsburgh Pirates don't fire Ben Cherington?
Gary Morgan explores the implications of keeping the current GM in place—from the front office vision to the 2026 roster. Is continuity the key, or a recipe for more of the same?

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Paul Skenes reaches 200 strikeouts, but the Pirates clinch another losing season. Gary Morgan breaks down Skenes’s performance, the Orioles series, and the Pirates’ five-year offensive decline. Plus, what Henry Davis’s struggles say about the team’s development system.

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Two Pirates affiliates—Altoona and Greensboro—are in the playoffs, facing off against teams loaded with Top 100 prospects. We break down the matchups, highlight standout players, and discuss the value of winning in the minors. Plus, Braxton Ashcraft’s case for a 2026 rotation spot and a look at the upcoming Roberto Clemente documentary airing on The History Channel.

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AMA Time! Gary answers your questions about Paul Skenes’ Cy Young chances, MLB expansion cities, the Pirates’ offseason plans, Brandan Bidois’ insane streak, and whether the team should go all-in on Eugenio Suárez. Plus: Oviedo vs. Keller trade value, the middle infield debate, and how to bridge a 180-inning gap in the 2026 rotation.

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The Pirates were swept by the Brewers, marking their fourth time being swept this season and continuing a streaky trend of feast-or-famine baseball. We break down the series, highlight performances, and dig into the team’s sweep stats. Then, we take a closer look at Bubba Chandler’s rough first MLB start and what it means for his development. Finally, we revisit Oneil Cruz’s ongoing slump — a puzzling stretch that the Pirates simply have to ride out.

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Paul Skenes leads the Pirates to a sweep of the Dodgers and tightens his grip on the Cy Young race. Don Kelly’s leadership and Isaac Mattson’s breakout rookie season highlight a strong stretch for Pittsburgh. We honor the 54th anniversary of the first all-minority lineup with details from the plaque ceremony and preview tonight’s Brewers matchup featuring Quinn Priester vs. Johan Oviedo.

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Braxton Ashcraft escapes two jams, Shohei Ohtani scratches his start but still hits, and the Pirates shut out the Dodgers. Then we dive into a full minor league check-in: stats, stories, rankings, and ETAs on Griffin, Barco, Florentino, Johnson, Stafura, Flores, Harrington, and Sanford. Finally, we break down the Pirates’ pitcher usage in August and what it means for 2026—can we trust the results?

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The Pirates beat the Dodgers 9–7 in a game full of drama and development. Gary recaps the key moments — from Bubba Chandler’s outing and Shohei Ohtani’s historic 120 MPH homer to Jared Triolo’s clutch performance and breakout August. Plus, a preview of tonight’s Braxton Ashcraft vs. Ohtani matchup, with a spotlight on Ohtani’s ongoing Tommy John rehab.

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The Pirates call up Nick Yorke and Cam Sanders — we break down Yorke’s AAA stats and why it took so long. Then, we dive into how power dominates MLB and answer a listener question about what a 2027 lockout could mean for team control. Finally, we preview a brutal homestand against the Dodgers and Brewers, featuring marquee matchups like Kershaw vs Mlodzinski and Snell vs Skenes.

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The Pirates claimed Ryan Kreidler off waivers—so why not Nick Yorke? We break down the decision and what it says about the team’s priorities. Then, we assess the Pirates’ post-All-Star performance and Don Kelly’s impact, arguing that 2026 improvement is within reach. Finally, we revisit five unforgettable Pirates performances that were never repeated. It’s a mix of roster moves, optimism, and nostalgia on today’s Locked On Pirates.

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In this episode of Locked On Pirates, host Gary Morgan breaks down Oneil Cruz’s rollercoaster 2025 season month-by-month and sets expectations for 2026. Listener questions spark a deep dive into Rafael Flores’ AAA performance and the team’s chances of reaching .500 next season. Plus, we examine the free agent market at third base and in the outfield—from budget-friendly veterans to dream targets like Kyle Tucker. It’s a full plate of Pirates talk with stats, strategy, and a look ahead to what could be a pivotal offseason.

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MLB playoff races heat up as Kyle Schwarber's 4-homer game stuns the league. Is this the most impressive offensive performance of the season?

Jeff Carr and the squad break down the latest developments in the American and National League playoff hunts. The hosts debate the difficulty of hitting for the cycle versus a 4-homer game, analyzing Schwarber's recent feat and its historical context. The conversation shifts to a heated MVP discussion, pitting Yankees slugger Aaron Judge against Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh.

Tune in for expert analysis on playoff positioning, offensive explosions, and the factors that...

Bubba Chandler tossed four scoreless innings to earn his first MLB win in a tight 2–1 victory over the Cardinals — and it’s time to talk about what’s next for the Pirates’ top pitching prospect. Then, we dive into a listener-submitted debate comparing Termarr Johnson to Nick Yorke and ask whether Jared Triolo’s late-season surges make him the anti-Mitch Keller. Finally, we count down the ten best individual Pirates seasons since 1993 — from Brian Giles’ overlooked dominance to Andrew McCutchen’s MVP peak.

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On today’s Locked On Pirates, host Gary Morgan makes the case for Henry Davis as the starting catcher in 2026—even if the bat doesn’t fully come around. With elite defensive metrics and a team built around pitching, Davis is the right fit. We also dive into the Pirates’ sweeping changes to their player development system, including the creation of a Performance Department and key front office hires aimed at fixing their offensive woes. Finally, we break down the latest roster moves, including the DFA of Andrew Heaney, the return of Oneil Cruz, and what to expect from Dauri Mo...

The Pirates dropped a tough one in St. Louis, but the real story is Andrew Heaney’s continued struggles—0.2 innings, 5 earned runs, and no answers. Johan Oviedo was pulled after four innings as part of a planned ramp-up, and the bullpen couldn’t hold it. Bryan Reynolds continues to look like himself with another multi-hit night, and we close with a reality check on Termarr Johnson—still just 20, still progressing, and still very much a key piece of the future. Let’s talk about what matters.

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In this episode of Locked On Pirates, Gary dives into the rising Cy Young buzz around Paul Skenes and what it means for the Pirates' future. Then it’s back to PNC Park, where the team’s home-field performance is starting to tell a different story. Finally, Jared Triolo’s recent surge at the plate gets the spotlight—has he turned a corner, or is this just a hot streak? All that and more in a jam-packed episode that blends optimism with realism.

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This week, our panel of experts from across the Locked On MLB network tackles the big news that Rob Manfred teased, big changes could be coming to baseball. More teams, realignment of the divisions and maybe even more? Is this good or bad news for the future of the game? 

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In this special episode, host Gary Morgan dives deep into the rollercoaster ride that has been the Bob Nutting era of Pittsburgh Pirates baseball (2007–present). Through a series of Top Ten lists, we explore the highs and lows that have defined nearly two decades of Pirates history—from breakout hitters and dominant starting pitchers to free agent gambles and front office misfires.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or a long-suffering observer, this episode offers a candid, entertaining, and sometimes painful look at the triumphs that gave us hope and the tragedies that tested our loyalty. It’s a cele...

The Pirates are calling up Bubba Chandler — but not to start. Gary breaks down the plan to use him in long relief and what that means for a bullpen already stretched thin. Johan Oviedo returned with a strong outing to help the Bucs take the series from Toronto, and we dive into what his performance means for the 2026 rotation. Plus, Bryan Reynolds is quietly heating up, and Oneil Cruz’s return could be just around the corner. All that and more on today’s Locked On Pirates.

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Mitch Keller’s annual late-season meltdown is back on schedule, and the Pirates are now 53–74. But hey, Johan Oviedo is returning, so… maybe that’s something? Gary recaps the latest loss to the Blue Jays, then takes you to Altoona for a much more enjoyable night of baseball featuring Konnor Griffin’s AA debut, Duce Gourson’s breakout performance, and Tyler Samaniego throwing gas like he’s got somewhere to be. Plus, we do the math on what it would take for the Pirates to reach 76 wins again—and whether that number even matters. Spoiler: it probably doesn’t.

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Paul Skenes bounces back, Mitch Keller stumbles, and Cutch speaks out.
In today’s episode, Gary breaks down Paul Skenes’ strong rebound performance against the Blue Jays and what it means for the Pirates’ rotation. Then, we dive into Mitch Keller’s post-All-Star break struggles—what’s going wrong, and can he turn it around? Finally, Andrew McCutchen opens up about his future and the team’s playoff hopes, plus a quick spotlight on Konnor Griffin’s debut with the Altoona Curve. It’s a packed show you won’t want to miss!

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Konnor Griffin’s promotion to Double-A Altoona is turning heads—and he’s only 19. Gary Morgan breaks down Griffin’s stats, age context, and what it means for the Pirates’ future.

Then it’s on to the rotation mess: Heaney’s demotion, AAA reinforcements, and a possible shift to a 6-man setup.

Finally, we debate Triolo vs. Devanney for a key roster spot and wrap up the Cubs series.

It’s a jam-packed episode full of insight, stats, and speculation. Let’s go Bucs!

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Big market MLB teams are struggling. Are the Mets, Yankees, and Dodgers facing a crisis?

Jeff Carr and the Locked On MLB Squad analyze the unexpected challenges for baseball's powerhouses. From the New York Mets' shocking collapse to the Los Angeles Dodgers' luxury tax manipulation, the hosts dissect recent performances and financial strategies. The Chicago Cubs' small-market approach comes under fire, while playoff predictions spark heated debate. Sully argues the current MLB economic structure pits "28 teams against the Mets and the Dodgers," potentially leading to future labor disputes.

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Today’s episode is a fan-driven Ask Me Anything. We’ll tackle questions about the front office, coaching staff, lineup decisions, prospect call-ups, and more. From hitting coaches to trade ideas, you brought the heat!

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We avoided it yesterday, but we have to discuss this ugly series, why changing the GM probably won’t be enough and a little about prospect success

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We’re joined by my good friend Eric Minshall from the Ohio Baseball science Academy and we’re going to pepper him with questions about pitching, development, management, all of it.

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Today we’re packing in a bunch, Why playing veterans with no future is a dead-end street, how the Brewers keep winning while giving youth a chance, and why the Pirates need to stop waiting and start trying.

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The Pirates just wrapped a rollercoaster series against the Reds—Paul Skenes looked like an ace, the bats showed life, and then Sunday happened. Now, they head into Milwaukee to face the division leaders. But as the season winds down, one question looms larger than any scoreboard: Is Don Kelly quietly building the foundation for 2026?

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The Milwaukee Brewers are on fire, boasting a 41-15 record in their last 60 games. Can they maintain this momentum into October? Jeff Carr and the Locked On MLB Squad analyze the Brewers' success, including unexpected contributions from players like Isaac Collins. The American League playoff picture remains murky, with teams like the Blue Jays, Mariners, and Astros vying for position. Which AL team has the most complete roster? The hosts debate the strengths and weaknesses of bubble teams, including the Cincinnati Reds and their potential late-season surge.

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Today we’re talking about a performance that was equal parts gritty and brilliant from the Pirates Ace, how foolish it would be to give up on Henry Davis, and we’ll discuss Ke’Bryan Hayes return to PNC Park as a Reds player.

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We’re going to talk about the Reds series that starts tonight, but we’re going to start by talking about questions this team has answered for 2026, as well as new questions they’ve handed us to ponder.

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We’ll discuss last night’s game a bit, and I really want to talk about how deep this Pirates pitching is and how the team should focus their energy the rest of the way.

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We’re obviously talking about an exciting come from behind walk off last night, I’ll turn our attention to a couple ex Pirates and we’ll wrap up with a look at why some players are still getting chances.

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We have to discuss Ben Cherington’s comments on Sunday on his radio show, the weekend series against the Rockies and a look toward the Giants series with a returning starting pitcher from the IL Johan Oviedo going tonight.

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Several teams stun with a flurry of deadline deals, while others leave fans scratching their heads. Our hosts break down which clubs had a successful deadline, especially the teams that got multiple players without sacrificing top prospects. Plus, roster overhauls, trading away local favorites, spark frustration among some fanbases.

Tune in for expert analysis on how these moves reshape the MLB landscape and impact playoff races.

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This was largely just gross. You can spend time assigning blame, but I think we all know the targets at this point, so I’m just here to go through the deals and I use that term lightly, mix in some of Ben Cherington’s post deadline press availability and talk it through, with you.

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The Pirates have traded their All-Star closer to the New York Yankees in exchange for three prospects. We’re going to break down who the Pirates got, what this means for the future, and yeah—I’ll give you my honest take on the deal. Spoiler alert: I’m not thrilled. 

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