Pittsburgh Pirates: Final Opening Day Roster Prediction

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SARASOTA, FLORIDA – MARCH 15: Ke’Bryan Hayes #13 of the Pittsburgh Pirates runs for second base during the third inning against the Baltimore Orioles during a spring training game at Ed Smith Stadium on March 15, 2021 in Sarasota, Florida. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images) /

Infielders – Ke’Bryan Hayes, Kevin Newman, Erik González, Adam Frazier, Colin Moran, Phillip Evans

This is a group that saw some changes with the elder Frazier opting out. That opt out is what has led to Phillip Evans being projected to crack the Opening Day roster, and it is a spot that the right-handed hitter has earned.

Ke’Bryan Hayes will start at third base, Adam Frazier at second base and Colin Moran at first base. One of Kevin Newman and Erik González, both of whom have been hot at the plate this spring, will start at shortstop with the other serving as the team’s backup middle infielder. Although, this could very much prove to be a situation where Shelton plays the hot hand most days.

Evans is listed with the infielders because his primary positions are third base, second base and first base. He could platoon with Moran at first base. However, the Pirates may also want to give Moran an opportunity against left-handed pitchers with Evans starting in right field. Regardless of where he is in the lineup, fans can expect to see a lot of Evans against left-handed pitchers this season.

Veteran utility man Wilmer Difo could be in play here as well. However, it appears Evans currently has a leg up for that final bench spot. But do not role out Difo who has made a strong case for an Opening Day roster spot during Grapefruit League play.

Overall, the infield will be an interesting group to watch with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2021. It is a group that could see plenty of turnover as Frazier is likely to be traded before the end of the season. Hayes will be looking to solidify himself as one of the best third baseman in baseball, Moran will be looking to build upon his breakout campaign in 2020 and Newman will be looking to bounce back after a poor 2020 season. If Newman does not bounce back and González’s career offensive struggles continue, then by the end of the season neither of them may be at shortstop as Cole Tucker could get a look at the position.

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