The underrated reason Max Kepler is the perfect fit with Pirates

The Pittsburgh Pirates currently have a very big hole in right field, but it could be solved very soon. Unsubstantiated buzz across social media has thrown out that the Pirates are interested in veteran outfielder Max Kepler.

This is nothing more than a little rumor, the variety of which happens every offseason, but the name is not something Pirates fans should turn their noses at. Kepler makes a lot of sense with the Pirates for more than just his offense. Obviously, upgrading the lineup is very important to Pittsburgh this offseason, but there's a more underrated reason why Kepler is a perfect fit.

Former Minnesota Twins outfielder Max Kepler is a perfect fit for Pittsburgh Pirates -- in a platoon.

Kepler has an outstanding glove in the outfield, posting a positive fielding run value in every season of his career. With the Pirates, he would fit nicely in his primary position of right field. In 2024, his four outs above average ranked in the 85th percentile. Additionally, his arm strength ranked in the 68th percentile at 87.2 miles per hour.

Kepler would bring very impressive defense in right field, and his left-handed stick would platoon perfectly with recently acquired utility piece Billy Cook. Cook played 85 innings in the outfield in 2024, representing a small sample size, but saved six defensive runs and had two outs above average, which equated to a +3 defensive run value.

A defensive combo of Kepler and Cook would greatly benefit the Pirates' strong pitching staff, but that's not the only positive that comes from this platoon. Kepler, as a left-handed bat ,is better against right-handed pitching. He doesn't often see southpaws, but throughout his career he has been better vs. right-handers, and as he ages, it's especially important to maximize his talents.

Particularly in 2023, his last season where he was an above-average hitter, Kepler posted a batting average of .260 with 24 home runs, driving in 66. His OPS sat at .816, along with a wRC+ of 123. He was significantly better against righties, posting a wRC+ of 128, OPS of .832, and mashing 20 of his home runs.

Cook, in the minor leagues in 2024, had a batting average of .301 against left-handers with eight home runs and an OPS of 1.006. He saw more right-handed pitching, but his numbers overall were better against the lefties.

This platoon could be a good option for the Pirates. Kepler won't be too expensive after a down year, but there is a strong chance he rebounds and performs like his 2023 self. Cook also seems like a very solid defensive weapon, and brings an impressive bat against left-handed pitching.