2 Pirates players who could see a larger role in 2025, and 2 who should not

The Pittsburgh Pirates put the lid on a disappointing 2024 campaign that was defined by an epic second-half collapse. Despite an all-time great rookie season from Paul Skenes, a likewise strong rookie showing from Jared Jones, productive full-season performances from the likes of Bryan Reynolds, Oneil Cruz, and Mitch Keller, and over $30 million added to the payroll over the winter, the club matched its 2023 total of just 76 wins.There has been a vocal commitment – starting at the top with owner Bob Nutting and trickling down to GM Ben Cherington – to compete in 2025. While the current roster features numerous holes that will require outside acquisitions, much of the improvement will have to come in-house. Looking at the group of players slated to remain in the organization next year, some unexpected names – for better or worse – could end up making a significant impact.2 Pirates players who could see a larger role in 2025Dennis SantanaOne of the greatest flaws of Cherington’s…