Locked On Pirates - Daily Podcast On The Pittsburgh Pirates

Pittsburgh Pirates face a franchise-defining question: should they lock in Oneil Cruz before a healthy breakout season sends his value skyrocketing? The conversation focused on Cruz’s electrifying talent, chronic injury battles, and what a full-strength campaign could mean for the Pirates’ hopes. Is betting on Cruz now the risk this team needs to take before their championship window passes by?
The discussion explored the team’s uncertain third base situation, weighing internal options like Nick Gonzales, Jared Triolo, and Murph Gray against the need for proven run production. Several points were raised, including the impact of depth moves at key positions and how roster decisions could shape Pittsburgh’s push for contention. The Brewers’ machine-like dominance, Cincinnati Reds’ developmental pitfalls, and Konnor Griffin’s potential adjustments also come under the microscope. Are the Pirates ready to turn elite pitching into postseason dreams, or will hesitation at the hot corner and with Cruz hold them back?

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Odoo
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FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to 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)

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October baseball magic takes center stage as legends are born and franchises break curses. From Bill Mazeroski’s game-ending blast to Luis Gonzalez’s improbable walk-off, the greatest World Series moments ignite debate: which "Fall Classic" truly stands above the rest?
Gary Morgan ranks his top 10 World Series matchups, recounting the drama of the 2001 Diamondbacks vs. Yankees, 2016 Cubs ending a 108-year drought, and Carlton Fisk’s iconic 1975 Red Sox homer. The conversation explored MLB’s long battle with labor unrest, the ongoing influence of collective bargaining on the game’s future, and what past strikes mean for fans as the current CBA nears expiration. Listeners get bonus insight as Gary fields AMA questions on Derek Diamond’s Rule 5 status, potential Pirates playoff matchups, and whether breakout arms like Paul Skenes or The Miz offer the best future for Pittsburgh.

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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
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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.
KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

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
Spice up your season with rich pumpkin flavor and bold cinnamon swagger in every sip. Pumpkin Spice 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots are available for a limited time in stores and on https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
LarineCo
Larine is a better-for-you chewing gum . Larine is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://buylarine.com/LOCKEDONMLB.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to 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)

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Pittsburgh Pirates face tough decisions as Carmen Mlodzinski’s future role sparks debate—is he best utilized as a struggling starter or could he emerge as a premier multi-inning bullpen weapon? Gary Morgan dissects the organization’s efforts to redefine Mlodzinski’s value, the recent restricted list drama, and the importance of embracing specialized relief roles in modern MLB.
Key topics include the Pirates’ unorthodox offensive surge in 2026, standout performances from Brandon Lowe, Oneil Cruz, and Esmerlyn Valdez, and the impact of clustered scoring on Pittsburgh’s playoff hopes. Morgan explores what separates true contenders like the Milwaukee Brewers, the need for more consistent hitting, and whether MLB expansion could eventually reach Latin America. Plus, listener AMA highlights roster-building strategies and the ever-persistent question: what moves are necessary to make the Pirates a World Series threat?

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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
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.
KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

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
Spice up your season with rich pumpkin flavor and bold cinnamon swagger in every sip. Pumpkin Spice 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots are available for a limited time in stores and on https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
LarineCo
Larine is a better-for-you chewing gum . Larine is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://buylarine.com/LOCKEDONMLB.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to 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)

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Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays defy expectations, setting up a World Series clash that challenges baseball’s big-spending orthodoxy. William Contreras anchors Milwaukee’s lineup with a scorching postseason, while Bryce Turang and Christian Yelich elevate the Brewers to new heights. Tampa Bay counters with explosive talent like Junior Caminero and unmatched bullpen depth, raising the stakes for every run, steal, and defensive play.
Gary Morgan dissects how both small-market teams outmaneuvered giants by making bold, sometimes unpopular roster decisions and focusing on relentless efficiency. Key themes include aggressive baserunning, elite defense, and the managerial chess match between Pat Murphy and Kevin Cash. Can the Brewers’ star power and strategic trades outlast Tampa Bay’s bullpen mastery? This episode unpacks why disciplined, uncomfortable decisions power sustainable contention—offering Pirates fans a road map for building a true championship contender.

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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
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.
KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

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
Spice up your season with rich pumpkin flavor and bold cinnamon swagger in every sip. Pumpkin Spice 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots are available for a limited time in stores and on https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
LarineCo
Larine is a better-for-you chewing gum . Larine is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://buylarine.com/LOCKEDONMLB.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to 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)

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Pittsburgh Pirates face a pivotal question: Is Bryan Reynolds’ era ending, or is his veteran presence the key to building a contender? Gary Morgan breaks down Reynolds’ shift from early-career superstar to reliable middle-of-the-order bat, analyzing his performance, advanced metrics, and the nuances of a possible decline. With Reynolds entering his early 30s but still delivering above-average value on a team-friendly contract, the debate swirls: should the Pirates cash in via trade or keep their cornerstone?
Key topics include the financial impact of Reynolds’ extension, comparison of current outfield talent like Oneil Cruz and Esmerlyn Valdez, and why trading Reynolds doesn’t make sense unless the return is overwhelming. The discussion tackles fan expectations, potential lineup changes, and the lessons learned from recent Pirates and MLB roster moves. Is keeping Reynolds the foundation Pittsburgh needs, or will external pressure push the front office toward another rebuild?

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
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
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.
KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

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
Spice up your season with rich pumpkin flavor and bold cinnamon swagger in every sip. Pumpkin Spice 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots are available for a limited time in stores and on https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
LarineCo
Larine is a better-for-you chewing gum . Larine is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://buylarine.com/LOCKEDONMLB.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to 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.