While the Pittsburgh Pirates sit in fourth place in the NL Central this season, they are only one game behind the St. Louis Cardinals and have a record of 50-47. 

But more significantly, their offensive MLB ranks this season have them tied for first in runs (516), first in batting average (.263), second in OPS (.763) and third in slugging percentage (.426). 

The last time the Pirates put together a season that ranked in the top five in any of these statistical offensive categories was back in 2014. The Pirates have several key offensive contributors this season who have helped increase their chances of being postseason contenders. 

They currently hold a 40.5 % to 41.6% chance of making the postseason according to Fangraphs. In addition, they are also only two games back of the Miami Marlins for the final NL wild-card spot. 

Pirates offensive MLB ranks this season:

Runs — t-1st
BA — 1st
SLG — 3rd
OPS — 2nd

The last time they finished a season ranked top-5 in ANY of these categories was 2014. pic.twitter.com/yp407VMTSa

Pirates players who have led the pack offensively in 2026

Offseason acquisition Brandon Lowe leads the Pirates this season with 21 home runs and 64 RBI, while also leading all second basemen in MLB with a .487 slugging percentage. He is one of several other key offensive contributors this season.

Third baseman Nick Gonzales has been a highly impactful contact hitter. He leads all qualified third basemen in MLB with a .308 batting average, which is also the best on the team. 

First baseman and designated hitter Ryan O'Hearn has also served as a dominant force, crushing 16 home runs and 63 RBI, while also holding a compelling .288 batting average. 

Outfielder Bryan Reynolds has been a reliable offensive catalyst, holding an impressive .283 batting average with 14 home runs and a stellar .400 OBP. His plate discipline has also been remarkable as he's boasting a 14.7% walk rate that sits in the 95th percentile. 

But one of the biggest surprises for the Pirates this season has been rookie sensation Esmerlyn Valdez. He's unloaded a historic performance, smashing 10 home runs across his first 28 games this season. In addition, he hit three home runs in the Pirates' doubleheader against the Milwaukee Brewers on July 11.