Pittsburgh Should Pursue Josh Jung to Solve Third Base Question
Pittsburgh's offense improved in 2026, but third base remains a concern, especially with Brandon Lowe headed for free agency. The article suggests the Pirates should consider acquiring Josh Jung if Texas makes him available. It frames Jung as a potential fit who could address the club's hot-corner uncertainty.
Pittsburgh’s 2026 offense reached a 101 wRC+, ranking 15th and marking its first above-100 finish since 2014. Third base still posed problems: Nick Gonzales’s bat nearly won a batting title, but his -11 OAA defense hurt, and Brandon Lowe’s free agency could remove a 35-homer, 121 wRC+ bat.
Josh Jung, a 28-year-old former first-round pick, played 104 games in 2026 and posted a 136 wRC+, 12 homers, and 3.2 fWAR. His walk rate rose to 7.9%, strikeout rate fell to 18%, and hard-hit rate approached 50%, all career bests, though injuries have limited him.
For Pittsburgh fans and the broader baseball audience, a Jung trade could reshape offseason expectations and give the club a more stable infield story. It may affect player roles, especially Gonzales and any free-agent plans, while local interest and coverage could rise if the move signals renewed competitiveness. The impact would likely remain modest beyond sports, centered on fans, team employees, and the Arlington and Pittsburgh markets.