Pittsburgh Pirates Experiment with Oneil Cruz in Center Field
The Pittsburgh Pirates are pivoting in their defensive strategies with a significant position change for one of their most promising young stars. In a recent announcement, Manager Derek Shelton confirmed that Oneil Cruz will transition from his usual spot at shortstop to center field.
This move marks a notable shift for the 25-year-old, who has never played center field at any level of professional baseball. Despite his lack of experience in the outfield, the Pirates believe Cruz’s athleticism and strong arm will make him a valuable asset in center field. "Cruz will remain a center fielder for the foreseeable future," Shelton stated, emphasizing the team's commitment to the switch.
Over the course of the season, Cruz has encountered challenges at shortstop, having made 24 errors so far. Alarmingly, half of these errors have come since July 21. His mixed record at shortstop based on statistical metrics likely influenced the decision to give him a fresh start in a new position.
While Cruz's defensive endeavors at shortstop have been less than stellar, his offensive contributions have been noteworthy. This season, Cruz has posted a solid .265/.324/.468 slash line, along with a 120 OPS+. His 29 doubles, three triples, 18 home runs, 63 RBIs, 57 runs, and 17 stolen bases underscore his all-around value to the team. Currently, he holds a 2.5 WAR, underlining his positive impact despite defensive struggles.
The adjustment in Cruz’s role is not just a response to his defensive issues but also a protective measure following his history of injuries. Last year, Cruz's season was abruptly cut short in April when he broke his leg during a home plate collision with Seby Zavala. Even this year, as recently as late August, he was listed as the designated hitter to mitigate further risks, partly due to the physical demands of shortstop. "Cruz's season-ending injury last season was a factor in the decision," Shelton noted, reflecting the cautious approach the franchise is taking with their budding talent.
The Pirates have realistic aspirations for the remainder of the season, given that they have essentially fallen out of the playoff race and endured a rough stretch, including a debilitating 10-game losing streak earlier this month. However, recent performance has shown signs of life, with the team winning four of their last six games. It could be argued that these organizational shifts, like repositioning Cruz, are part of broader efforts to experiment with and prepare for a more competitive future.
Adding another layer of complexity to the Pirates' plans was Nick Gonzales suffering a groin injury in late July, which may have indirectly necessitated further adjustments in fielding positions. By moving Cruz to center field, the Pirates aim to stabilize their lineup while optimizing the strengths of their players. This strategic recalibration hopes to leverage Cruz's arm strength and athleticism, facets of his game that may shine brighter in the outfield.
Cruz's experience in the outfield has been minimal, with only 80 innings at Triple-A in left field and a single inning in the majors. Yet, the Pirates are optimistic that his raw talent will help him adapt quickly to this new role, potentially redefining his future contributions to the team.
As the Pirates approach the final stretch of the season, all eyes will be on Cruz to see how he handles this transition. A successful shift to center field could not only rejuvenate his career but also add a dynamic layer to the Pirates' defensive capabilities. This new chapter for Cruz is laden with challenges but a successful transition could position him as a pivotal player for the Pirates in the coming seasons.