Yankees’ Roster Move Potentially Solves Pirates’ First Base Dilemma

The Pittsburgh Pirates may have found a short-term solution to their first base dilemma in Dominic Smith, the recently released veteran first baseman. With their limited offseason spending and a promising acquisition sidelined by injury, the Pirates have been forced to get creative in addressing a glaring need.

Dominic Smith, a former New York Yankee and Boston Red Sox player, presents an intriguing possibility for Pittsburgh, offering league-average offensive skills and the defensive experience they desperately require.

The Pirates’ Ongoing Search for Stability at First Base

For years, the Pittsburgh Pirates have struggled to find consistency at first base, and their 2025 plans took a hit when Spencer Horwitz—acquired by trading away pitching assets—was sidelined due to a chronic wrist injury requiring surgery. With Horwitz expected to miss the start of the season, the team has explored various internal candidates for the position.

These include *Nick Yorke’s brother* and DJ Stewart, neither of whom offer much in terms of experience at first base. The results thus far have been underwhelming, intensifying the urgency to find a dependable alternative.

Is Dominic Smith the Solution the Pirates Need?

Enter Dominic Smith, who recently opted out of his contract with the Yankees after being scratched from their lineup. Smith is a career .252 hitter with a 97 OPS+ and is coming off a 2024 season with the Red Sox where he posted a 96 OPS+.

While these numbers suggest Smith is slightly below league average offensively, they also indicate reliability in a lineup. Additionally, his .297 batting average, paired with three home runs and 12 RBIs, during his strong spring training performance in Yankees camp, highlights his potential to contribute offensively for the Pirates.

Although spring training stats can sometimes exaggerate a player’s true value, Smith’s recent form suggests he’s more than capable of filling the void at first base for Pittsburgh. Bringing someone with his experience and skills into the mix could stabilize a position that has been tumultuous at best for the Pirates over the years.

Why Dominic Smith Makes Sense for Pittsburgh

Aside from his offensive capabilities, Smith also offers defensive consistency at first base, something the Pirates desperately need. As Horwitz recovers, the Pirates can benefit from a veteran presence who understands the nuances of playing first base—an often-overlooked skill that directly impacts a team’s infield efficiency.

Smith’s left-handed bat provides additional balance to their lineup, adding another layer of value to him as a short-term or possibly even mid-term solution for the team.

A Low-Risk, High-Reward Option

One of the most compelling arguments for signing Dominic Smith is the relatively low cost involved. Given that Smith opted out of his contract with the Yankees, the Pirates wouldn’t need to pay a premium price to bring him on board.

This aligns perfectly with their approach of maintaining financial flexibility while still looking to remain competitive. If Smith shows flashes of his offensive momentum from spring training and integrates well with the team, the Pirates could end up with a bargain player who makes a meaningful difference in the standings.

Pirates’ Path Forward with Smith in the Fold

The decision to bring Dominic Smith into the Pirates organization would address both short-term stability and long-term possibilities. As Spencer Horwitz recovers from surgery, Smith offers a capable replacement who could not only hold down the fort but also provide a spark with his bat.

His .297 spring training performance this year hints at his ability to contribute at the plate, while his defensive experience would benefit the team on the field.

Conclusion

The timing of Dominic Smith’s availability couldn’t be better for a Pirates team in search of answers at first base.

By signing Smith, Pittsburgh would acquire an affordable, experienced first baseman who offers league-average offensive capabilities and solid defensive skills.

For the Pirates, this move would be another savvy, financially responsible decision aimed at bolstering a roster trying to overcome injuries and internal uncertainty.

Only time will tell if Dominic Smith becomes more than a temporary fix, but for now, he seems like the ideal candidate to fill the Pirates’ pressing need at first base.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Yankees’ latest roster decision might’ve gifted Pirates a first base solution