NL Central: Questions about 2B and CF reemerge in PIT

Pittsburgh Pirates

The baseball season is long, which allows some storylines to repeat. That appears to be the case in Pittsburgh, where the team has several options to sort through at second base while also having a significant gap to fill in center field. Though it may not be obvious, those two positions are related. 

Nick Gonzales (2B/SS, PIT) reinvigorated both his career and the Pirates’ lineup with his play earlier in the season (77 ct%, 100 xPX, 101 HctX, 68 BPX) to claim the starting role at second base, seemingly in both the short and long term. He suffered what appeared to be a serious groin injury in late July but has progressed more quickly than anticipated and is set to begin rehab games within the next week. 

Meanwhile,...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

This week, we take a look at lineup trends throughout the NL West and identify players who are quietly receiving more opportunities than previously expected.
Apr 11 2026 3:07am
With Brice Turang dealing with ankle tendinitis, Pratt may be an injury away from his MLB debut
Apr 10 2026 3:05am
We make a few observations on Derek Shelton's first two weeks as Twins manager. Plus, injury impact in the CHW outfield, George Valera's impending return in CLE, SP depth in DET, and Michael Massey's activation in KC.
Apr 9 2026 3:05am
With the lack of RHH platoon power in Seattle, Patrick Wisdom could provide a boost.
Apr 8 2026 3:05am
Jeremiah Jackson (pictured) has seen more playing time than anticipated to open the season, but his time in the majors could be limited with Jackson Holliday's looming return. Plus, more from around the AL East.
Apr 7 2026 3:05am

Tools