Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Oneil Cruz is done settling for defensive mediocrity and his latest offseason move proves he is dead serious about mastering center field.
The Pirates superstar knows that his transition to the outfield in 2025 had some serious growing pains.
Instead of resting on his offensive potential, he drove 45 minutes to Tampa to learn from a defensive wizard.
Kevin Kiermaier, fresh off retirement, is officially mentoring Cruz on the fine art of patrolling the outfield.
This is the best possible news for Pirates fans who watched Cruz struggle with reads and routes last summer.
The "Outlaw" brings four Gold Gloves and a Platinum Glove resume to these private sessions in Florida.
Kiermaier is teaching him the "A-Z" of the position, focusing heavily on the mental side of the game.
Oneil Cruz (Signed as International Free Agent, 2015 by Dodgers) has the physical tools that most players only dream of possessing.
His arm strength is legendary, ranking in the 100th percentile last season, but raw power needs direction.
This partnership is the key to unlocking a superstar
If Cruz can absorb even half of Kiermaier's defensive instincts, he transforms from a liability into a weapon.
The fan base has been waiting for this kind of dedication, desperate to see their unicorn reach his ceiling.
Last season, Cruz posted -14 Defensive Runs Saved, a number that simply cannot fly for a contender.
But Kiermaier raves about his attitude, noting that the young star is listening to every single word.
The "Eye Test" confirms the potential; viral clips show Cruz soaking up knowledge with a focus we haven't always seen.
Imagine an Oneil Cruz who chases down gaps with confidence to match his 120 mph exit velocities.
That is the version of the player that carries Pittsburgh back to the promised land of October baseball.
He is 27 years old, entering his prime, and finally treating his defense with the same intensity as his bat.
This is not just a workout; it is a statement that "good enough" is no longer acceptable in Pittsburgh.
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Toronto Blue Jays acquire former Pittsburgh Pirates left handed pitcher
| POLL | ||
FEVRIER 5|241 ANSWERS Former Blue Jays outfielder Kevin Kiermaier takes on new role Do you believe Oneil Cruz will win a Gold Glove in his career? | ||
| Yes | 145 | 60.2 % |
| No | 96 | 39.8 % |
| List of polls | ||