3 bold comeback predictions for Oneil Cruz

Accolades

I see Cruz following the Geraldo Perdomo model and riding a hot start to an All-Star nod. Who wouldn’t want to see a giant of a man zip bullets across the diamond, even as a late-inning replacement? (Yes, I know we haven’t discussed Cruz’s actual ability to play short after the injury, but this is an article for dreams.) Of course, the Pirates could only earn one representative, and that would likely be a reliever, considering their bullpen’s strength, but Cruz’s talent for jaw-dropping plays could entice viewers, and MLB will do just about anything to attract fans.

I don’t think Cruz will be anywhere close to Comeback Player of the Year contention. That will likely go to Chris Sale, Elias Diaz, or some other big name. But I do think 2024 will provide a small taste of Cruz’s true potential, which Pirates fans can hope to behold for years to come.