Pittsburgh Pirates: Final 2023 Opening Day Roster Projection

Mar 2, 2023; Dunedin, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates left fielder Canaan Smith-Njigba (28)
Mar 2, 2023; Dunedin, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates left fielder Canaan Smith-Njigba (28) / Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports
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Bench/utility - Ji Hwan Bae, Connor Joe

Rounding out the bench are Ji Hwan Bae and Connor Joe. Bae will serve as the team's backup third basemand, shortstop, and seocnd baseman. Bae can also play the outfield, and could see his fair share of starts at second base as well.

Joe can play first base and the corner outfield spots. Regardless of the position on the diamond, Joe should be in the lineup every time the Pirates face a left-handed starting pitcher. He consistnetly puts together quality at-bats, can get on base at a good rate, and will work the count. All good traits for a hitter to have.