Jacob Punturi

Joined: Jul 11, 2024

Jacob is a featured writer covering the Pittsburgh Steelers for Steelers On SI and the NHL for Breakaway On SI. He also co-hosts the All Steelers Talk podcast. Previous work covering the NHL for Inside the Penguins and The Hockey News.

Jun 20, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Spencer Horwitz (2) rounds the bases on a solo home run in the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

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Within their own clubhouse and organization, the Pittsburgh Pirates have several options that would be an immediate upgrade.

Jun 15, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Endy Rodriguez (13) throws to first base for an out against the Athletics during the second inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images

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But even with a healthy battery of catchers, the Pittsburgh Pirates have an easy choice.

Jun 15, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Brandon Lowe (5) throws to first for an out against the Athletics during the third inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images

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While things seam bleak, this is exactly the time to buy in on the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Jun 3, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Henry Davis (32) drops his bat after hitting a grand slam home run during the fourth inning against the Houston Astros at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

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That means this Pittsburgh PIrates catcher is the most important player in their upcoming series.

Jun 4, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates left fielder Jake Mangum (28) hits a double against the Houston Astros during the fifth inning at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images

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That formula is working, and this resilient Pittsburgh Pirates team is making a real mark.

May 26, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher Dennis Santana (60) pitches against the Chicago Cubs during the ninth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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Pittsburgh PIrates reliever Dennis Santana’s control and velocity are suffering, and the bullpen is falling apart as a result.

May 14, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski (50) pitches against the Colorado Rockies during the third inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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Just as suddenly, Carmen Mlodzinski could return to being a key member of the Pittsburgh PIrates' pitching staff.

Jun 2, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Endy Rodriguez (13) celebrates with pitcher Gregory Soto (31) after the game against the Houston Astros at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

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Through 61 games, this team has left enough of an impression that these three bold predictions might just come to pass for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

May 31, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Brandon Lowe (5) takes a throw for a force out at second base during the second inning against the Minnesota Twins at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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After smashing his 15th home run of the season in just 55 games, the Pittsburgh Pirates have to find a way to negotiate an extension with Brandon Lowe before it's too late.