Home / Sports / Pirates Cut Ties With $12M Signee Marcell Ozuna
Pirates Cut Ties With $12M Signee Marcell Ozuna
5 Aug
Summary
- Pirates released designated hitter Marcell Ozuna after poor production.
- Ozuna signed a one-year, $12 million deal in the offseason.
- His release clears roster space for outfielder/infielder Ronny Simon.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are parting ways with designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, a significant offseason acquisition. League sources confirmed the decision on Wednesday, citing the slugger's subpar performance as the primary reason for his release.
Ozuna signed a one-year contract worth $12 million in the offseason. However, his production fell well short of expectations. In 70 games and 280 plate appearances, he batted only .203 with a .612 OPS and managed just eight home runs.
This move will allow the Pirates to clear a spot on both their 40-man and active rosters, making way for outfielder/infielder Ronny Simon. The team's designated hitter position has been a challenge throughout the season, currently holding the fourth-worst OPS in Major League Baseball.
Despite Ozuna's release, the Pirates remain in the hunt for a wild card spot, trailing by 3 1/2 games. The team's overall offensive OPS is strong, but they are awaiting the return of key players Konnor Griffin and O'Neil Cruz from the injured list.
