Pirates End 10-Year Drought, But Big Questions Remain

Pirates End 10-Year Drought, But Big Questions Remain highlights Pittsburgh’s progress toward ending a long postseason absence, even as roster uncertainty grows. After Thursday’s 5-1 win over the Seattle Mariners, the Pirates moved to 41-40 and were above .500 at the season midpoint for the first time since their 2015 playoff run. They sit 2.5 games behind the NL Wild Card pace, with FanGraphs playoff odds falling from 62.4% on June 1 to 38.5% now. Manager Kelly’s path depends on sustained success before the trade deadline, with bullpen upgrades likely needed. Key health issues also loom: O’neil Cruz (IL since June 10), Konnor Griffin (returning after May/IL with arm flexor strain), and Spencer Horwitz (10-day IL with a hamstring strain).