Pittsburgh Pirates Podcast: Oneil Cruz Heating Up & More

Oneil Cruz is heating up. Who else could the Pittsburgh Pirates promote in September? And more in the latest episode of Rum Bunter Radio.

In this episode of Rum Bunter Radio the crew comes together for the first time in September to break down roster updates, Oneil Cruz hot stretch and the never ending escapade that is the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Pirate roster expanded as the month got underway, two slots were opened up for 40 man roster members to join the big league club. Pittsburgh selected Johan Oviedo and Cal Mitchell from Indianapolis as their two call ups.

Were these two the correct choices off the bat? The crew discusses the future of Cal Mitchell and why this move is important to help the young outfielder find comfort at the big league level. Unfortunately that is not something all up and coming Pirates are going to have the chance to do this fall.

Who else should fans expect to see make the biggs before 2022 is over? Ji-Hwan Bae continues to be a name on the tip of the tongue when you begin this conversation. If the Pirates don’t take advantage of Bae and other young infielders this season, will they ever get their chance with the Pittsburgh Pirates?

Pitching, although, is the main focus of this discussion. When will Michael Burrows get his shot? And for guys like Quinn Priester is making the move from double a out of the question?

As the episode continues to heat up it presents for a good time to discuss Oneil Cruz the rookie that continues to captivate baseball. While the tools were impressive from the jump, the numbers weren’t always riding their coattails. After a difficult start to his 2022 campaign, Cruz has slowly turned the numbers in his favor, striking out less and seeing the ball better.

What has helped his performance, and what will it take to help him continue to grow?

Batten down the hatches, clear the decks and enjoy episode 89 of Rum Bunter Radio!