The Bucco Beat

The Philadelphia Phillies appear to have made a decision on Rhys Hoskins. / Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

The Pittsburgh Pirates undoubtedly have a hole at first base that 100% needs addressed in the 2023-2024 free agent market. One target Pirates fans seem to adore is former-Phillies first baseman, Rhys Hoskins. To acquire Hoskins it would undoubtedly take a bigger swing than the Pirates have made in previous years. Hoskins is projected to be anywhere between the $13-17 million per year range, and some Pirates fans maintain their optimism of seeing him in the black and yellow. However, I believe not only adding Hoskins automatically fills a hole, but changes the teams mentality as a whole. Hoskins brings with him a player that can consistently hit for average and power, and would automatically boost the Pirates’ offense. Hoskins’ above league average on-base percentage and consistency would instantly make the Pirates’ offense a legitimate threat in the MLB. With a team full of young players, Hoskins would bring the lineup security our stars Oneil Cruz, Bryan Reynolds, and Ke’Bryan Hayes have desperately needed. Bringing in a player with Hoskins’ presence can not only inspire, but also motivate the team, fans, and all around create a winning culture in Pittsburgh. Hoskins, bouncing back from an ACL tear obtained in 2023 spring training, will be betting on his future in the MLB in 2024. Since his debut in 2017 Hoskins has a slash line of .242/.353/.846, and would undoubtedly be the best first baseman the Pirates have had on their team in years. At 30 years old, a two year prove it deal to show the value he can bring to a team would perfectly fit the Pirates’ window of contention. The Pirates can also potentially benefit perhaps he were to have a post-injury breakout year, potentially acquiring top prospects in exchange for Hoskins. You also have the avenue of Hoskins taking a team-friendly deal perhaps he seems to be the long term solution for the Pirates.

This is all just reminiscing when you are a Pirates fan, but having Hoskins in the 412 would surely feel good. So buckle up, because we should be in for an interesting few weeks ahead. As always, thank you for reading, and Let’s Go Bucs!