Gregory Soto prides himself on availability.
The new Pittsburgh Pirates’ left-handed relief pitcher consistently takes the ball. He is one of just two lefties in the major leagues who have made as many as 60 appearances in each of the last five seasons. Soto’s 391 career outings since making his debut in 2019 are also the second-most among left-handers.
“I have to say thank God first, just to have the ability to be able to do that, and myself as well, because I put myself in a good spot, physically and mentally, as well to do that,” Soto said Friday through translator Stephen Morales in a teleconference with reporters. “That’s the goal for this year again. Just to do 60-plus outings. I’ve been blessed with that, and that’s a goal again for this year, to be able to do the same thing.”
Soto’s durability is one reason why the Pirates signed Soto to a one-year, $7.75-million contract as a free agent. The only other left-handed reliever they have on the 40-man is Evan Sisk, a 28-year-old rookie who has pitched just 17 innings in the big leagues.
The Pirates finished last in the National League Central this year with a 71-91 record and have had 29 losing seasons in the last 33 years. However, Soto’s interest in the Pirates was piqued by their finishing seventh in ERA in MLB in 2025.
“What I saw, why I chose the Pirates for the job, is I saw a lot of young, talented pitchers and players on a young, talented team,” Soto said. “I love to do that. I love the competition. I think I’m a good fit (for) the Pirates.”
Soto, 30, broke into the major leagues with the Detroit Tigers and played for them for four seasons through 2022. He was selected to the All-Star Game in his last two seasons and recorded 30 saves in 2022.
Soto has since pitched for the Philadelphia Phillies (2023-24), Baltimore Orioles (2024-25), and New York Mets (2025). He was 1-5 with one save and a 4.18 ERA in a career-high 70 games this past season and has a career record of 15-34 with 56 saves and a 4.26 ERA in seven seasons.
The Pirates have told Soto he will be used in the late innings. He and right-hander Isaac Mattson are likely to be the primary set-up relievers for closer Dennis Santana.
“Definitely, my mentality and my attitude when I go out late in the game helps me a lot,” Soto said. “When it comes to go out there and be sure, make sure that no runs will cross the plate, that’s the mentality at the back end of the bullpen.”
Soto has also become known for dying his hair various colors and says he will continue that tradition in Pittsburgh.
“I will try different colors this season for the Pirates,” Soto said with a smile. “You can write it down.”