Pittsburgh Pirates infielder Jared Triolo is making a strong case for a permanent spot on the roster in 2026. After a stint in Triple-A Indianapolis to address his offensive struggles, Triolo has returned to the majors with a renewed vigor at the plate.
Triolo's Journey Back to the Big Leagues
Triolo's journey hasn't been easy. Despite winning a Gold Glove Award last year for his defensive prowess, his offensive performance lagged, leading to his demotion to Triple-A on July 11. At the time, he was batting a mere .158. However, his time in Indy proved beneficial, as he hit .239 in 15 games, earning him a recall to the Pirates on August 1.
The trade of Ke’Bryan Hayes to the Cincinnati Reds opened up an infield spot, giving Triolo another opportunity to prove himself. Since his return, the 27-year-old has been impressive, hitting .333 while playing regularly at shortstop and third base.
A Glimpse into the Future?
The Pirates seem to be using August and September to evaluate their options for next season. Triolo's recent offensive surge is certainly turning heads and making him a strong contender for a starting role in 2026. His defensive skills have never been in question, and if he can maintain his improved offensive output, he could be a valuable asset to the team.
It remains to be seen whether Triolo's performance is sustainable, but his recent play provides a reason for optimism among Pirates fans. Keep an eye on this young player as he continues to battle for his place in the majors.