The Pittsburgh Pirates have started the season well. They hold a 5-3 record through their first eight games. The Pittsburgh Pirates have now won four straight games after yesterday’s walk-off win over the Orioles, 3-2. The Pirates have won two straight series. The Pirates currently sit second in the NL Central. Here are three key takeaways from yesterday’s win and why this Pittsburgh Pirates team looks different this year.
Purchase tickets via Ticketmaster
Dennis Santana Emerging as Pirates’ Shutdown Closer
Dennis Santana has been around the Major Leagues for several seasons, first appearing in the 2018 season. Since the trade with the Yankees in 2024, Santana has been outstanding for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Last season, he recorded 16 saves with a 2.18 ERA and a 0.87 WHIP. The Pirates have been searching for a reliable shutdown closer, and Santana is proving to be exactly that.
In Saturday’s game, manager Don Kelly brought him in. It was during the top of the ninth inning. The score was tied 2-2. He ended up with his second win of the season. To start the year, Santana has yet to allow an earned run and holds a 0.50 WHIP across six innings. He has recorded four strikeouts, issued two walks, and allowed one hit.
Santana is becoming a key weapon out of the bullpen. The Pirates team is building confidence with each win.
Veteran Leadership Impacting Pirates’ Early Season Success
There were early concerns about leadership after Andrew McCutchen did not return, leaving Bryan Reynolds as the primary veteran presence. However, offseason additions like Ryan O’Hearn, Brandon Lowe, and Marcell Ozuna are beginning to shape this team’s identity. While Ozuna has struggled at the plate, hitting just .074 with no home runs to start the season, his impact showed up in a different way on Sunday.
In the eighth inning, Ozuna hustled down the line on a weak ground ball. He reached first base after a defensive misplay. That effort proved critical, as Nick Yorke later pinch ran and eventually delivered the game-winning hit in the ninth inning.
It was a small moment. However, it was significant. It showed the type of effort that reflects a veteran who is fully engaged and committed to team success.
Pirates Chemistry and Dugout Energy Fueling Hot Start
Beyond the numbers, the Pittsburgh Pirates are showing something just as important early in the season—team chemistry. With young talent like Konnor Griffin, Paul Skenes, and Bubba Chandler, the energy in the dugout has been noticeable. The team is engaged on the bench consistently. They also have the now-recognized traffic cone celebration. This team clearly plays with confidence and connection. While the prop itself may seem minor, it represents something bigger. The Pirates are playing for each other, supporting one another, and maintaining energy throughout the game.
That kind of chemistry can be a difference-maker over the course of a long season.
Summary
It is still early in the season. The Pittsburgh Pirates are showing signs of a team that could take a step forward in 2026. With strong pitching performances, timely hitting, and improved bullpen reliability, the foundation is being built. If players like Marcell Ozuna find their rhythm at the plate, the Pirates could become even more dangerous. This increased threat would grow as the season progresses.
For now, Pittsburgh is playing confident, connected baseball—and the results are starting to follow.
