Home / Sports / Pirates Shuffle Lineup: Gonzales Takes Shortstop
Pirates Shuffle Lineup: Gonzales Takes Shortstop
16 Jun
Summary
- Nick Gonzales moves to shortstop, replacing Jared Triolo.
- Tyler Callihan will play third base, with Ryan O'Hearn in right field.
- The lineup change aims to incorporate the Pirates' best hitters.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are set to begin their series against the Athletics with a notably altered lineup, featuring Nick Gonzales taking over at shortstop. This significant shift sees Gonzales moving from third base, a position he has adapted to well. Tyler Callihan will now occupy third base, while Ryan O'Hearn is scheduled to play right field.
This strategic adjustment stems from a desire to incorporate the Pirates' most effective hitters into the starting roster. Jared Triolo, who had started the previous 16 games at shortstop, will not be in that position for the series opener. His role is being re-evaluated due to his .553 OPS this season, a contrast to Gonzales's .301 batting average, which ranks highly in the National League.
Further changes include rookie Esmerlyn Valdez making his first start in left field and Jake Mangum continuing in center field. Endy Rodríguez is back at catcher, and Bryan Reynolds will serve as the designated hitter. The batting order sees Horwitz, Lowe, Reynolds, O'Hearn, and Gonzales batting one through five.
