Locked On Pirates - Daily Podcast On The Pittsburgh Pirates

Pittsburgh Pirates end their run of losing seasons, clinching their first winning season since 2018 with standout performances from Brandon Lowe, Konnor Griffin, and Esmerlyn Valdez. Can this 82-win squad finally turn the corner and contend for an October run?
Gary Morgan spotlights key trends behind the Pirates’ resurgence—emphasizing offensive upgrades, Lau’s record-setting power, Valdez’s explosive rookie campaign, and the emergence of young pitchers like Jared Jones and Braxton Ashcraft. Topics include the evolution of Oneil Cruz’s game, Bryan Reynolds’ consistency, and lingering defensive questions that could define the 2027 roster plan. With pitching stability and real depth, are the Pirates ready to make the leap from respectable to playoff-bound?

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Nathan breaks down game three of the series between the Pirates and Tigers. the Pirates wrapped up the 2026 season with a victory over the Tigers to have them finish the season with an 82-80 record. Konnor Griffin would go yard on the 2nd pitch of the game to give the Pirates the early lead. Jake Mangum, Billy Cook, and then Konnor Griffin again would also drive in some more runs. Jared Jone made his final start of the year and ended it with a 4-inning outing where he struck out 5 Tigers and allowed 1 hit and no walks. The 2026 Pirates season officially comes to a close so make sure to keep up with Locked On Pirates all throughout the offseason.

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Brandon Lowe and Jacob Gonzalez each took Tigers starter Justin Verlander deep in his final outing of his career, but Mason Montgomery blew the save as the Tigers walked it off on the Pirates 4-3. The Pirates had another bullpen game and Kirby Yates made his first start of his career and tossed 1.2 scoreless innings in what will probably be the final start of his career. Lowe’s blast gives him 35 home runs and 96 RBIs for the season.
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Nathan breaks down game one of the series between the Pirates and Tigers. The Pirates tonight played a game full of defensive misplays, walks, wild pitches, and just bad baseball. Bubba Chandler struggled in his final start of the season. The offense started strong, however fell silent very quick. They would reawaken in the 8th inning for a strong rally. Justin Verlander will face the Bucs tomorrow, as the future Hall of Famer will make his final start.

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Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.
Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

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Pittsburgh Pirates close out the 2026 MLB season with renewed optimism, distancing themselves from years of rebuilding mode. Can this foundation finally launch them into October baseball next year? Gary Morgan compares the Pirates’ 81-78 campaign to the Detroit Tigers’ disappointing finish and blockbuster Tarik Skubal trade, illustrating how each organization stands at a crossroads.
Key topics include the Pirates’ shift from chasing .500 seasons to setting playoff expectations, standout contributions from young talent like Konnor Griffin and Esmerlyn Valdez, and the psychological impact of tangible progress in Pittsburgh. Gary Morgan also questions whether the Milwaukee Brewers’ 100-win formula can translate to postseason dominance, citing concerns about superstar power. Don’t miss this sharp analysis of roster construction, league trends, and what needs to happen for the Pirates to bridge the gap from respectability to true contention.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
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.
Gameday Mens Health
Gameday Men’s Health is a real, in-person men’s health clinic that looks at the full picture before developing a treatment plan. Book your complimentary test and consult at
https://join.gamedaymenshealth.com/reasons_to_choose_gameday-1201?utm_source=lockedon&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=MLB&utm_network=lockedon&utm_adgroup=corp&ghl_tag=national,corp
Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.
5-Hour ENERGY
Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon
Stance
Check out the ICON collection from Stance—premium comfort, performance, and durability designed for whatever your day brings.
Use promo Code LOCKEDON at checkout for 20% off your purchase. Learn more at https://Stance.com.
Stance. The Official Sock Partner of Major League Baseball.
KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.
FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM

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)

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