These 3 Pirates players are winning spring training past the halfway point

Often times as fans, we can really over-exaggerate players' reputations based on their spring training performances. The Pirates have a few players that are having very solid performances this spring, but have not exactly been reliable throughout the regular season.

Nonetheless, it appears some of these players could be turning corners, or may just be on a hot streak with their 20-to-30 at-bats this spring. Let's take a look at three Pirates who are winning so far this spring, and helping make their case for time in Pittsburgh.

These three Pirates are winning spring training, and could be earning themselves time in Pittsburgh.

Endy Rodriguez

The backup role behind Joey Bart was up in the air entering spring training, and Endy Rodriguez could be slamming the door shut for that debate. Other candidates for the backup spot are Henry Davis and Jason Delay, but neither are performing as well as Rodriguez, especially given both have a lot to prove.

This spring, Rodriguez has gotten eight hits in his first 22 at-bats, including a home run and two doubles. He has also driven in four runs, walked seven times, and struck out just twice. The plate skills he needs to pair with his elite defense are key for his development and future time in Pittsburgh. He is showing that he is getting them back after recovering from surgery.

Tsung-Che Cheng

Tsung-Che Cheng fell in the recent update of MLB Pipeline's top 30 prospects in the Pirates organization. He struggled at the plate in 2024, and that did not help his chances of competing for the starting shortstop spot. Nonetheless, he came into spring training looking for a way into Pittsburgh, and he is definitely off to a great start.

So far this spring, Cheng has gotten 19 at-bats and found his way to six hits, including a home run and two doubles. He has also driven in two runs and has struck out just three times. He needs a big 2025 season, and this represents a great start in that pursuit.

Ji Hwan Bae

Ji Hwan Bae entered camp on the verge of a DFA, given the Pirates' precarious 40-man roster. He has dominated Triple-A pitching in recent years, but has struggled badly in the majors. Nonetheless, he is barreling towards the second half of spring training with a hot bat, and could possibly be saving himself a roster spot.

In 28 at-bats this spring, Bae has belted a home run and four doubles, which make up for five of his 13 hits. He has struck out five times and has also stolen three bases. He is second baseman and outfield wild card, so his best chance to make the team is as a utility guy and pinch running specialist.