You are viewing the chat in desktop mode. Click here to switch to mobile view.
X
Jason Mackey's Pirates chat: 02.05.26
powered byJotCast
Prev Page View Full Chat Next Page
Jason Mackey
12:26
I don't know, man. What if he wants Roman Anthony money? What if he wants to win? What if he wants a different structure? I just think there's nuance to the structure of this thing that none of us are capable of spitballing in this setting.
Ethan
12:26
Am I crazy for thinking a trade for a young, controllable (but less proven) 3B would be a good outcome? If the Pirates trade for Baty/Vientos they can still use their Suarez/Valdez money to add Ozuna, Quintana, and trade Bart for a reliever
Jason Mackey
12:28
I'd be fine with that, Ethan. They might have to give up Bart in a trade. Be mindful of that. A young controllable 3B who would be attractive enough to warrant being trade also wouldn't come cheap. Don't forget about that. But I think that move would make sense, then you do some of the other stuff you're talking about. Some might prefer Cutch over Ozuna. At least I think.
Ethan
12:28
Does Ryan O'Hearn become Kevin Kiermaier's newest client if the team signs Marcell Ozuna? I think it'd be worth it to add that bat but O'Hearn playing LF at PNC regularly is worrisome
Jason Mackey
12:28
I agree with that. I like him as an occasional LF, occasional 1B and occasional DH. Regular LF, no. I'd like Mangum playing out there, honestly. It's why I don't totally get the Ozuna fit, though he's obviously a solid hitter.
PhilinCT
12:28
Mr Mackey, as always, thanks for your time and insight. First, enjoy Bradenton, I look forward to your discoveries. At the end of 2026 what will Pirate fans be most excited about and most exasperated about? I am saying Mr. Cruz and the bullpen, respectively.
Jason Mackey
12:30
Hi Phil. Thank you very much for that. Can't wait. Fly down Monday.

Most excited about: the pitching staff. It becomes elite. A trademark here. Dominant.

Most exasperated about: Third-base becomes a black hole that dogs them the entire season when it comes to offensive productivity.
Pavs
12:30
Thoughts on potentially adding Davis Schneider? Not that we’ve been connected to him or anything, but Toronto has a lot of bats and it seems like he could be the odd man out. Decent power and walk rate, plus can play outfield and maybe a bit of third.
Jason Mackey
12:32
He's a 2B/OF who's played 4 games at 3B. Has had some production (21-homer average over 162, plus a .736 OPS in 3 seasons), but I'd like them to shoot higher at that spot. I think they can shoot higher at that spot.
Tim and Maria
12:32
Greetings Jason.  A number of years ago, Pitt basketball languished until the commitment of Curtis Aiken, a highly touted recruit. A number of other touted players followed and Pitt had great success.  Do you think Konnor Griffin can attract free agents to sign with the Pirates and perhaps bring  similar success?
Jason Mackey
12:33
I don't know if it's anything unique to Konnor Griffin, especially because you would think Paul Skenes would also serve that purpose.

It's winning. When they win, people will want to come here. Until they do that, it's tough. Need to change that in 2026.
Tim
12:33
Hi Jason - do you think the possibility of a lock out by the owner will impact the Pirates' decision/timeline on Konnor Griffin?  (they always seem to be in love with team control and I would assume that if the lock out happens and is protracted - players at settlement would gain service time for any lost games)
Jason Mackey
12:34
I don't think it will, Tim. Extending Griffin is smart business for them no matter what. He could be a $30-million-a-year arb player. But if they take a calculated risk now, they can get him for half or less than half of that.
Ethan
12:34
If the Pirates thought it was worth pursuing Valdez, would they maybe think they have a shot on a guy like Verlander? Was with Kelly in Detroit and Murphy in Houston. If he thinks he has more than one year left in the tank he might be open to it
Jason Mackey
12:34
I'd be fine with them doing that. However, don't know if he would come here (still would want to win, you think, and there are questions here). Pirates also need a lefty.
Ben Cherington
12:34
What do I stand to gain by being “in” on everyone and signing virtually no one?
Jason Mackey
12:34
If you hadn't have acquired Lowe/O'Hearn, this would've been really ugly.
Ryan
12:35
2026-Another year of Paul Skenes, another year of no playoffs. Worst organization in sports.
Jason Mackey
12:35
I think they challenge for a playoff spot, but you're obviously allowed to feel however you wish, Ryan.
Southside Jimmy
12:35
What are your thoughts about the changes to the coaching staff Jason?  Thanks.
Jason Mackey
12:36
I love the addition of Tony Beasley. You hear so many great things about the man. I know a little less about Khristopher Negron but still someone who seems to be a coach in the rise in this business. Bill Murphy is the topper for me. Might be the best pitching coach in baseball. People loved this guy in Houston. Super bright. Current Pirates pitchers are huge fans so far. I think Kelly has done well for himself so far.
Cody
12:36
Are there anybody the pirates are going to get? And are we going to see konnor Griffin as the opening day shortstop
Jason Mackey
12:37
They're certainly going to give him a chance to earn it.
Ryan
12:37
Good afternoon Jason i think the pirates should go after Jose Quintana for a left handed pitcher also How many wins will the pirates win i think 80 or something like that Let’s Go Pirates
Jason Mackey
12:37
I agree with you Ryan. Quintana would be a great fit. I'm saying 83. I know that sounds nuts because they still have moves to make in their offseason.
Drunk uncle
12:37
Jmack how’s the family. Jason what’s your go to adult beverage for Super Bowl? Bourbon?
Jason Mackey
12:38
Probably won't have any. Gonna be on the Sunday Showdown with Pomp live after the game. Need to conserve my energy.
maz01
12:38
Hi Jason, If you look at the Central division as of this date, the Pirates look to finish last compared to the talent of other teams, of course STL could give the Pirates a run for their money. Pirates need at least two more hitters & Quantana, do they do these things to avoid another last place finish?
Jason Mackey
12:38
I think they'll get a 3B and Cutch. They'll sign a starter, maybe Quintana. And I don't think they'll finish last.
Ryan
12:38
Cherington is like a bear. Hibernates all winter.
Jason Mackey
12:39
Very odd. Came out of hibernation in mid-December, right before Christmas, however.
Rich
12:39
Getting late. Feels like where early in offseason people were excited now a lot more concern. Thoughts? Two part question.

  1. Do Pirates acquire an upgrade over Triolo before Opening Day?
  2. Assuming they do this what is your expected W/L record? Cliche I know. Thanks for all you do
Jason Mackey
12:39
Hi Rich, it's not, though. Look around the game. There are a bunch of guys still unsigned. But I get what you're saying. They need to get this stuff done.

I do think they upgrade over Triolo, making him more of a utility guy. I've been saying roughly 83 wins.
Anthony
12:39
what would you give the mets for Baty? or Vientos?
Jason Mackey
12:40
Bart, Termarr and a lower-level pitcher. I think I'd prefer Vientos to Baty.
Joel
12:40
Is the Pirates’ failure to bring in a viable upgrade at third base predicated partially on Konnor Griffin being on the opening day roster? Because, if not, I don’t get the lack of urgency at all. They can't seriously hope to be on the edges of contention with Triolo and Gonzalez as the only viable players on the left side of the infield.
Jason Mackey
12:41
I don't think they're related, Joel. There's still a long time for opening day. I'm also not excusing it. Griffin comes down to whether he shows he's ready without time in Triple-A or if they come together on an extension. I don't think the wires should be crossed.
Greg
12:41
Any rumblings you're hearing on who a targeted LHP for the rotation is? Easy to throw the usual names (Quintana, Anderson, Corbin) out there but any traction on those, or other names yet?
Jason Mackey
12:41
Quintana is the one I've heard most. You're on the right track, though.
Stew6674
12:41
What are your feelings on this club making Konor Griffin our SS to start the season? How does that impact (if any) his years of control vs getting called up later in season?
Connecting…