The Pittsburgh Pirates have decided to make a significant defensive shift, moving 25-year-old Oneil Cruz from shortstop to center field, a position he has never manned at any level of professional baseball. This decision is confirmed by Pirates manager Derek Shelton, who believes the move is essential for both the team's strategy and Cruz's individual growth as a player.
A Bold Move
The Pirates' decision comes on the back of a challenging season for Cruz, who has had a mixed record at shortstop, evidenced by statistical metrics. With 24 errors this season—12 of which were committed since July 21—it's clear that consistency at the position has been an issue. According to Shelton, "Cruz will remain a center fielder for the foreseeable future," suggesting that the organization is committed to fully exploring this new role for him.
Maximizing Athleticism
Cruz is known for his athletic prowess and a strong arm, traits that are expected to be advantageous in center field. With the Pirates essentially out of playoff contention and coming off a grueling 10-game losing streak earlier this month, the timing seems right for experimentation. The club has recently seen a slight resurgence, winning four out of their last six games, creating a slightly more positive environment for such transitions. "Cruz’s season-ending injury last season was a factor in the decision," Shelton also noted, pointing out that his broken leg from a home plate collision with Seby Zavala in April 2022 still plays a role in how the Pirates manage his workload and expectations.
Cruz's Versatility on Display
While Cruz has never played center field, his versatility has been hinted at before. This season, he has already logged 80 innings in left field at Triple-A and even an inning in left field in the majors. As of late August, Cruz had been occupying the designated hitter spot in the lineup, providing a much-needed offensive force with a batting line of .265/.324/.468. His performance at the plate has been commendable, boasting a 120 OPS+ along with 29 doubles, three triples, 18 home runs, 63 RBIs, 57 runs, 17 steals, and a 2.5 WAR.
Offensive Consistency Amidst Changes
Despite the shifts in his defensive role, Cruz has remained an offensive cornerstone for the Pirates. His contribution has been particularly vital during a season where the team has struggled to put together consistent performances. The hope is that by moving him to a position that leverages his natural athletic talents, Cruz will not only contribute defensively but also be more relaxed, which could, in turn, positively affect his offensive numbers. Given the Pirates' current standings, any move that could potentially optimize player performance is a step worth taking.
Future Implications
This move may set a precedent for how the Pirates utilize their talent moving forward. With young players like Nick Gonzales also navigating injuries, adaptability and versatility are becoming increasingly valuable traits. Gonzales, who suffered a groin injury in late July, represents another piece of the puzzle that management must fit together. The decision to shift roles mid-season underscores a broader strategy aimed at finding the best fit for each player while assessing the team’s long-term needs.
For Oneil Cruz, this transition to center field is more than just a positional change; it’s an opportunity to redefine his role with the Pirates and demonstrate his full range of skills. As the Pirates navigate through the final stretch of the season, all eyes will be on how Cruz adapts to his new position and the impact it will have on both his career and the team's future strategy.