Jared Triolo’s Bat Could Shape His Pirates Role
The Pittsburgh Pirates are expected to rely on Jared Triolo’s defensive versatility in 2027, while hoping he improves at the plate after a difficult 2026 season.
Jared Triolo is expected to remain with Pittsburgh in 2027, when the Pirates will need dependable infield depth as they pursue their first postseason appearance since 2015. The season will also be Triolo’s first in arbitration after four years in the majors.
Triolo’s defense has made him valuable in a utility role. He has played all four infield positions and also appeared in the outfield in 2026. A three-time National League Gold Glove finalist, he won the award in 2024. His strongest career defensive numbers have come at third base, where he has 14 Defensive Runs Saved and 11 Outs Above Average, and at second base, with 10 Defensive Runs Saved.
He spent much of 2026 at shortstop, making 59 starts in 70 games there while rookie Konnor Griffin was sidelined for nearly three months. Triolo also started 27 games at third base. He missed about a month early in the season with a right knee patellar tendon injury, the longest absence of his major-league career.
The main question is whether his offense can improve. Across 411 major-league games, Triolo has hit .237 with a .317 on-base percentage and .335 slugging percentage. In 2026, he posted a .609 OPS and hit three home runs. Unlike in his previous three seasons, he did not have a stronger second half: his OPS was .608 before the All-Star break and .613 afterward.
A .700 OPS and double-digit home runs would make Triolo a more significant contributor, while his defense could earn him a larger role at third base or second base depending on the Pirates’ roster. If his offense does not progress, Pittsburgh may look elsewhere for a long-term utility player.