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MLB Insider: Most likely replacements for Oneil Cruz, Michael Harris II

By Robert Murray

Michael Harris II, Atlanta Braves. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Michael Harris II, Atlanta Braves. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oneil Cruz #15 of the Pittsburgh Pirates reacts after making an error resulting in two run for the Chicago Cubs in the seventh inning during the game at PNC Park on September 25, 2022 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)
Oneil Cruz #15 of the Pittsburgh Pirates reacts after making an error resulting in two run for the Chicago Cubs in the seventh inning during the game at PNC Park on September 25, 2022 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /

How the Pittsburgh Pirates will replace Oneil Cruz

Replacing Oneil Cruz is impossible. Not only is he a physical specimen who is capable of hitting the ball harder than anyone in baseball, he’s also a player who has the potential to be a 30-30 player. There are some who even believe that a 40-40 season is possible.

Players like Cruz don’t come around often, and that’s what makes his injury so unfortunate. Now, the Pirates are tasked with replacing their starting shortstop who was also their leadoff hitter.

The Pirates called up Mark Mathias as the corresponding move to putting Cruz on the Injured List, but this will take an all-hands-on-deck effort from their entire offense. It’s partially why the team sought so many veterans this winter — Ji-man Choi, Carlos Santana, Austin Hedges and Andrew McCutchen — to take some of the load off the young players, but also to teach them how to be major leaguers.

That will certainly come into play with Cruz gone. The vibes were great in Pittsburgh with Cruz healthy. With him gone long-term, it’s on those veterans to keep those vibes going.

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