The Pirates made a significant trade for outfielder Edward Olivares, which has proven to be a successful move, with his impressive performance at the plate standing out among Pirates hitters.

By the Numbers
  • Olivares has a .261 batting average, .320 on-base percentage, and .478 slugging percentage in 50 plate appearances.
  • His expected batting average is .385, ranking as the best among all qualified National League hitters.
  • His expected weighted on-base average (wOBA) and slugging, along with his barrel rate and sweet spot rate, all rank in the 94th percentile or higher.
Yes, But

There might be some uncertainties due to the small sample size of Olivares' current success, which could impact his long-term performance.

State of Play
  • Olivares' improvements at the plate have been significant, with changes in his swing leading to better results and increased exit velocity.
  • Coaches identified areas for improvement, focusing on creating space behind the baseball and minimizing head movement during his swing.
  • Olivares' adjustments have enabled him to perform well against both right-handers and left-handers, potentially securing a regular spot in the Pirates' lineup.
What's Next

If Olivares sustains his current level of performance, his role in the team and his impact on games are likely to increase, providing the Pirates with a valuable offensive asset.

Bottom Line

The Pirates' trade for Edward Olivares has proven to be a hidden gem, with his impressive offensive output showcasing the impact of strategic player acquisitions on team success.