Pittsburgh Pirates' Derek Shelton Pleased With Oneil Cruz's Defense

Title: Pittsburgh Pirates' Derek Shelton Pleased With Oneil Cruz's Defense Twitter EmbedTwitter EmbedTwitter Widget Iframe The Pittsburgh Pirates have shifted Oneil Cruz from shortstop to center field, a decision made by manager Derek Shelton and the team management as they aim to improve his defensive performance. Cruz's transition to center field has shown positive results, with Shelton noting his athleticism and ability to adapt to the new position, leading to impressive plays in September. In his 23 games as a center fielder, Cruz made only two errors, a significant improvement compared to his 24 errors while playing shortstop. Cruz's defensive metrics have improved, showing a positive change in his outs above average and fielding run value after the position change. The Pirates are optimistic about Cruz's future in center field, believing he can solidify the position with a full offseason of preparation. The team is also facing challenges regarding their offensive lineup, particularly in the corner outfield positions, as they look to enhance their performance heading into the 2025 season. Bryan Reynolds, a reliable outfield bat, is being considered for a potential move to first base, with Shelton indicating that this could provide more flexibility for the team. The Pirates are focusing on acquiring a corner outfielder to strengthen their lineup, as they have lost several key players to free agency and trades. Paul Skenes, the Pirates' ace, had a standout rookie season, winning the National League Rookie of the Year and performing exceptionally well on the mound. The upcoming offseason will be crucial for the Pirates, as they aim to address both their offensive shortcomings and defensive adjustments to avoid a continued playoff drought.

Original Article: https://www.si.com/mlb/pirates/news/pittsburgh-pirates-derek-shelton-pleased-oneil-cruz-defense

Original Article Author: Nathaniel Marrero