Pirates Improve to 24-20, Offensive Output Surges

The Pittsburgh Pirates currently hold a 24-20 record after taking two of three games from the Colorado Rockies. The team's improved run production is a key factor in the Pirates' performance, as they are averaging 5.0 runs per game this season after averaging 3.6 runs per game last year. This represents a 38.9 percent increase. General Manager Ben Cherington attributed the offensive surge to a deeper lineup. Additions to the roster include Brandon Lowe, Ryan O'Hearn, and Marcell Ozuna. Cherington also noted the development of existing players such as Oneil Cruz. He is showing more maturity this year and Paul Skenes performance is also helping the team. The Pirates rank sixth in runs per game and eighth in ERA. According to FanGraphs, the Pirates currently have a 58.9 percent chance of reaching the postseason.