After a slow start and fan frustration, Pittsburgh Pirates designated hitter Marcell Ozuna notched his first multi-hit game of the season on Tuesday night.
PITTSBURGH – Marcell Ozuna now has a “1” at the front of his batting average, and that represents progress for the Pittsburgh Pirates’ designated hitter.
Seeking a spark on Tuesday night, Ozuna went 2 for 4 with a double and his first RBI of the season, though the Pirates fell 5-4 to the Washington Nationals at PNC Park. The 14-year veteran’s batting average climbed to .106 thanks to his first extra-base hit and multi-hit game in his inaugural season with the Pirates.
The season’s early struggles remain evident. Over 12 games, Ozuna has just five hits in 47 at-bats, resulting in a .106/.192/.128 slash line.
No one was happier to see Ozuna succeed than Pittsburgh manager Don Kelly. Before spring training, Kelly pushed for signing his former Miami Marlins teammate to a one-year, $12-million deal.
“He’s been swinging the bat better,” Kelly said. “He’s been working hard. Hopefully it’s a catalyst for him.”
Ozuna’s improved night resonated throughout the game. He led off the second inning with a single and doubled in the fourth, driving in his first run of 2026 in his 51st plate appearance. He nearly had a third hit in the seventh, but left fielder Daylin Lile made a good play on his line drive.
“Today was a good day,” Ozuna said. “Every day is good, but today I felt especially blessed. I found success and got a couple of hits.”
And an RBI, which made Ozuna especially happy. He had 100 RBIs in 2023 for the Atlanta Braves, then knocked in 103 the following season.
“That was good because it was two strikes,” Ozuna said. “Every time is two strikes with a man on base, I try to get the momentum going.”
Even with these struggles, Ozuna’s upbeat personality remains intact. He is not only a prominent figure in the clubhouse but also well-liked by his teammates.
Kelly gives Ozuna high marks for connecting with center fielder Oneil Cruz and rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin.
“It’s not easy to do as a guy that’s coming in,” Kelly said, “There’s nobody that wants to get a big hit more than Marcell right now, but how he’s been able to impact others on this team after a tough stretch for himself has been really impressive.”
Ozuna has been booed regularly at PNC Park, but on Tuesday night, the fans were cheering for him instead.
“The boos are tough for a bit,” Ozuna said. “After you do well, they stop.”
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