PT TOMORROW: NL Central - Things to watch for during the first weekend

Pittsburgh Pirates

The primary position of intrigue in Pittsburgh entering the regular season is at second base, where Rodolfo Castro (2B/3B, PIT) and Ji-Hwan Bae (2B, PIT) have battled for the top spot on the depth chart throughout spring training. The acquisition of Mark Mathias (DH, PIT) this spring added another potential starter at the position, further muddying the potential playing time picture. The most likely outcome is that only two of the three make the active roster, with only one having the chance for regular playing time to begin the regular season. 

None of the trio has been particularly impressive this spring, though both Mathias and Bae have marks in their favor. The former has gone only 7-for-26 with one extra-base hit...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

With Spring Training games starting this week, questions abound as fresh faces and new issues present themselves in camp, including SP and SS in ATL, RF in MIA & PHI, SS at NYM, 1B at WAS, and more.
Feb 16 2026 3:11am
The NL West has plenty of prospects to be excited about, but finding playing time has been difficult so far. Will their fortunes change in 2026?
Feb 12 2026 3:03am
The reality of Byron Buxton's injury history necessitates having a CF backup plan in place, but the Twins' current plan is unclear. Plus, a look at 2B for CWS and CLE, rotation depth for the Tigers, and the saves situation in KC.
Feb 10 2026 3:04am
With Yoan Moncada returning to 3B, there's a new position battle at 2B for the Angels.
Feb 4 2026 3:05am

Tools