REVEALED: Why Oneil Cruz HIT Harder But FAILED More in 2025

Pittsburgh Pirates face a pivotal year as Oneill Cruz's power surge collides with puzzling plate discipline issues. Can Cruz reconnect with his 40-homer potential, or will his struggles at center field and increased passivity at the plate derail the team's hopes? Gary Morgan explores why Cruz's eye for pitches improved—yet his production plummeted, diving into swing rates, run value metrics, and the curious drop-off against fastballs and sliders. Roster implications loom large as Cruz's future in Pittsburgh hangs in the balance, with only three years of team control remaining. Will the Pirates shift him to a corner outfield spot, revisit third base, or stick with the center field experiment? Morgan examines possible extension talks, trade scenarios, and the ripple effects on prospects like Konnor Griffin. Can the Pirates build around Cruz or should they prepare to cash out? Buckle up for a season-defining journey through lineup decisions and franchise strategy. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.