The Pirates Fell Short, But Something Changed in 2026

The Pirates finished 2026 at 82-80, falling short of the postseason but securing just their fifth winning season in the last 34 years.

Alex Stumpf looks at what stood out during the final weekend in Detroit and why the way this group finished may matter beyond the record. From Kirby Yates' emotional sendoff and Bubba Chandler opening up about his season to Konnor Griffin turning an individual question into an answer about the team, there were signs of the culture the Pirates are trying to build under Don Kelly.

Plus, why Brandon Lowe has become such an important part of that clubhouse and why bringing him back could be one of Pittsburgh's biggest offseason priorities.

Read more from Alex Stumpf at Book Rule Bucs:
bookrulebucs.substack.com

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