Pittsburgh Pirates: Bullpen, Offense Lead Way to Series Victory Over Nats

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Apr 16, 2022; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Michael Chavis (2) runs the bases on a triple against the Washington Nationals during the eighth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

Michael Chavis has a big series

Michael Chavis came to the Pittsburgh Pirates from the Boston Red Sox in exchange for reliever Austin Davis last July. At the time it seemed strange that the Red Sox were willing to give up on Chavis so quickly. After all, he was a former first-round pick who had a good rookie season with Boston in 2019.

In 42 plate appearances with the Pirates after the trade Chavis hit for a .357/.357/.500 slash line. This was despite missing time due to an elbow issue. Despite struggling in spring training he still made the team’s roster and has done nothing but hit this season.

Chavis was 3-for-4 with a RBI in Saturday night’s victory. One of these hits was a triple on which he never slowed down while running the bases on his way to hustling into third base to start a key 3 run rally in the 8th inning.

Sunday afternoon Chavis once again started for the Pirates. In that victory he was 2-for-4 with another RBI. As we have already mentioned Chavis also made multiple strong defensive plays in the series.

Right now it is hard ot keep Chavis out of the lineup. He is hitting for a .500/.556/.875 slash line to go with a 296 wRC+ through his first 18 PAs of the season. Additionally, with his ability to play every position on the field with the exception of catcher, shortstop, and center field, it’s not hard to get his bat into the lineup. Especially with the National League now having the designated hitter as well.

Chavis has done nothing put push for an extended role and more at-bats. At least until he cools off at the plate Chavis needs to be playing as much as possible.

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