Pittsburgh Pirates Urged to Consider Major Oneil Cruz Move

Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Oneil Cruz has certainly been one of the most disappointing players in baseball over the last several seasons.

When Cruz first broke into the big leagues in 2021, the sky appeared to be the limit for the Dominican native.

He stood 6-foot-7, possessed enviable athleticism and tremendous overall physical tools that had scouts salivating. But Cruz has never really materialized.

The 27-year-old entered the majors as a shortstop, but began transitioning to center field in 2024 because of his terrible defense. He hasn't exactly worked out well in the outfield, either, and on top of that, Cruz managed a meager .676 OPS in 2025.

What gives?

Well, in a recent mailbag with Danny Demilio of Pittsburgh Baseball Review, the idea of Cruz changing positions again was pitched.

So, could the Pirates actually move the former top prospect to a different part of the diamond? Well, the question then becomes, where do you put him?

Perhaps the one spot Pittsburgh might consider is first base given Cruz's towering size, which fits the position well. But the Buccos just signed Ryan O'Hearn, who is expected to share first base with Spencer Horwitz.

Maybe moving Cruz to one of the corner outfield spots would be more ideal, but the reason the Pirates placed him in center to begin with was because of his great speed.

To be quite frank, Pittsburgh might just have to accept the reality that Cruz is not a good defensive player. Or at least he won't ever be anything better than pedestrian.

Now, in fairness, some metrics did like Cruz in center field last season. Statcast had him graded at a plus-4 FRV, but it's really hard to get around his minus-14 DRS, and his tendency to misplay fly balls and line drives.

Also, while Cruz's athleticism and stride should give him almost unlimited range, he doesn't get to as many balls as you would think.

Maybe the 240-pound talent just needs more time to develop. He has only played one full season in center field, so it's possible he could turn into a decent defender out there in the future.

But changing Cruz's position for the second time would not be great for his development, nor would it benefit his already sinking trade value if he fails at yet another spot on the field.