Locked On Pirates - Daily Podcast On The Pittsburgh Pirates

WINNING CULTURE: Pirates’ Second Wave CREATES New Spring Momentum – Depth Makes a DIFFERENCE

Pittsburgh Pirates could dominate spring training with their revamped depth, but is this record a sign of real progress or just a spring illusion? Gary Morgan examines why the late-game surge from prospects like Edward Florentino and Esmerlyn Valdez gives the team a winning edge in the Grapefruit League, while urging fans not to read too much into inflated spring records. Could a surge in AAA talent reshape NL Central power dynamics and spark postseason dreams? Key topics include the rotation’s potential for a playoff run, the impact of bullpen arms like Dennis Santana and Gregory Soto, and the likelihood of a long-term extension for top prospect Connor Griffin. Gary Morgan tackles listener AMAs about NL Central depth, the Pirates’ pathway to a “D-backs-style” World Series push, and why spring pitching struggles might hide valuable development. Will this new wave of talent finally make winning the norm in Pittsburgh?   Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PlayStation This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit https://mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE. Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost.Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game.   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.

Play: Pittsburgh Pirates DEPTH Pushes MLB-Ready Competition—Horwitz, Cruz, Lowe FIGHT for Jobs

Pittsburgh Pirates ignite fierce competition within the roster, forcing players like Spencer Horwitz, Brandon Lpwe, and Oneil Cruz to fight for their jobs or add versatility. Is job security a myth in Pittsburgh’s clubhouse, or the engine driving their revival? Gary Morgan explores the rising impact of Jake Mangum—the division’s new “dirty work artist”—and how a crowded outfield and deep bench signal a culture shift. Key topics include major league-caliber depth at nearly every position, strategic free-agent signings, and the critical Pirates vs. Reds rotation battle featuring Paul Skenes and Hunter Greene. With proven arms clashing against raw talent, can the Pirates outpace Cincinnati’s rotation and deliver on their highest ceiling yet? Don’t miss this detailed breakdown of Pittsburgh’s roster evolution and what it means for their stakes in the NL Central.Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PlayStation This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE. Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost.Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game.   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.

HYSTERIA: Are Concerns About the Pittsburgh Pirates’ Defense EXAGGERATED?

Can the Pittsburgh Pirates’ defense silence early critics and anchor a playoff push? Gary Morgan spotlights how key additions like Ryan O’Hearn and Brandon Lau, plus position shakeups with Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds, are reshaping the outfield and infield dynamics. Questions loom over defensive reliability, but upgrades at several spots and the emergence of Jake Mangum and Michael Garcia offer hope for a steadier glove game at PNC Park. Fresh leadership under Don Kelly’s new coaching staff brings Houston’s data-driven pitching philosophy and much-needed organizational consistency. Gary Morgan addresses the impact of ABS (automated balls and strikes), what Adam Rubin’s hiring means for fans, and bullpen wild cards like Bedouin. Will better communication, sharper fundamentals, and a reset coaching staff finally change the Pirates’ defensive narrative? This episode is a must-listen for Pittsburgh Pirates fans eager to see if 2026 marks a turning point. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started.    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.

The Only One Thing Between Paul Skenes & PERFECTION

Pittsburgh Pirates fans are buzzing as Paul Skenes faces his “worst” outing—four walks and four strikeouts, yet zero runs allowed. Is efficiency the last piece missing for the ace to become unstoppable? Gary Morgan spotlights Skenes’ spring struggles, questions his pitch-to-contact potential, and examines how maximizing innings can supercharge the Pirates' contention hopes in 2026. The episode also tackles Oneil Cruz’s evolving approach at the plate, defensive challenges, and how Cruz’s ability to cover the zone could redefine his impact this year. Morgan scrutinizes Derek Shelton’s managerial return with the Minnesota Twins, discussing familiar roster issues and the legacy of coaching amid talent droughts. With key insights on roster decisions and spring training performance, Locked On Pirates delivers a smart, candid take on the players and strategies shaping Pittsburgh’s baseball future.   Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started.    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.

PIRATES PUZZLE: Carmen Mlodzinski’s Spring IMPACT Will SHAPE the Rotation DECISION

Pittsburgh Pirates face a rotation puzzle as Carmen Mlodzinski emerges as a potential game-changer. Can the young right-hander outshine veteran options and anchor the starting staff when every arm counts? Gary Morgan dissects the rotation depth, exploring why Mlodzinski’s newly developed splitter and flexibility could steer the Pirates through early-season uncertainty. Key topics include Konnor Griffin’s explosive spring training showcase, the left side of the infield's open competition, and the ongoing quest for reliable back-end bullpen arms. Morgan tackles fan AMAs—highlighting Pittsburgh’s offensive upgrades, the importance of depth, and the pressure on new coaching hires like Bill Murphy and Don Kelly. Will Griffin’s advanced approach force the Pirates’ hand at shortstop? Get insights on roster construction dilemmas, breakout candidates, and whether this Pirates group has what it takes to contend in the NL Central.   Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started.    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.