Pirates News: Isaac Mattson claimed, Brandon Lowe social media post, Gold Glove snubs

The Pittsburgh Pirates have lost another piece of their bullpen depth heading into the 2027 season.

Right-handed reliever Isaac Mattson was claimed off waivers by the Seattle Mariners on Monday, ending his three-year stint in Pittsburgh's organization.

Mattson, 31, made 38 relief appearances for the Pirates in 2026, posting a 5.35 ERA with 36 strikeouts and a 1.60 WHIP across 38 2/3 innings. His struggles represented a significant step backward from an impressive 2025 campaign, when he recorded a 2.45 ERA in 44 appearances.

The Erie, Pennsylvania, native and former University of Pittsburgh standout initially joined the Pirates organization on a minor league deal ahead of the 2024 season. He made his Pittsburgh debut that September before establishing himself as a dependable bullpen option the following year.

Mattson's departure comes as the Pirates face several questions about their bullpen construction for 2027. Gregory Soto's free agency has already created uncertainty, while Pittsburgh must determine how to build around emerging relief weapon Mason Montgomery.

Although Mattson's 2026 performance made him expendable, his departure further reduces the organization's experienced relief depth. Seattle, meanwhile, gets an opportunity to see whether the veteran right-hander can rediscover his 2025 form.

Brandon Lowe gives Pirates fans hope with heartwarming social media post

Pittsburgh Pirates fans looking for any indication that Brandon Lowe might return in 2027 just got a small — albeit inconclusive — reason to smile.

Over Halloween weekend, a Pirates fan tagged Lowe in an Instagram story featuring their child dressed as the star second baseman. The young fan wore Lowe's Pirates uniform and stood inside a cutout designed to resemble a baseball card.

Lowe noticed the tribute and reposted it to his own Instagram story with the caption, "Costume of the Year?"

It was a heartwarming interaction, but the timing makes it particularly meaningful for Pirates fans. Lowe is entering free agency after an outstanding first season in Pittsburgh, hitting .260 with 35 home runs and 96 RBI. He also earned a National League Gold Glove finalist nomination, making his potential departure one of the biggest questions facing the organization this offseason.

Of course, reposting a Halloween costume is hardly an indication that Lowe intends to re-sign with Pittsburgh. Still, the interaction offers another reminder of how quickly he became a fan favorite in his first season with the Pirates. Whether that connection translates into another year in black and gold remains to be seen.

Pirates shut out of Gold Glove Awards despite two deserving finalists

Lowe and utilityman Jared Triolo were both finalists for the 2026 National League Gold Glove Awards, but neither took home the hardware.

Milwaukee Brewers second baseman Brice Turang won his second Gold Glove, beating out Lowe and St. Louis Cardinals rookie JJ Wetherholt. Atlanta Braves utilityman Mauricio Dubón earned the award over Triolo and Arizona Diamondbacks veteran Ildemaro Vargas.

Lowe's omission is particularly disappointing considering his remarkable defensive turnaround. After finishing 2025 with minus-14 Defensive Runs Saved and minus-14 Outs Above Average, Lowe posted plus-13 DRS and plus-15 OAA in his first season with Pittsburgh. He also ranked third among MLB second basemen with a Fielding Run Value of 12.

Triolo, meanwhile, demonstrated his defensive versatility throughout the season, primarily playing shortstop and third base while also making appearances at first base and in the outfield. He finished with plus-5 DRS, including plus-4 at shortstop.

Despite missing out on individual honors, both players provided significant defensive value to Pittsburgh's infield in 2026.

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