Pittsburgh Pirates Make Key Roster Moves: Oneil Cruz Returns, Andrew Heaney DFA'd, Eyeing MLB Playoff Push

The Pittsburgh Pirates are making significant roster adjustments as they intensify their quest for a playoff berth during the crucial final phase of the 2025 MLB season. On August 26th, in a key piece of MLB news, the team officially announced the return of star shortstop Oneil Cruz from the 7-day concussion injured list, coupled with the designation for assignment (DFA) of veteran left-handed pitcher Andrew Heaney. These strategic roster moves, alongside other minor league transactions, underscore the Pirates' focused effort to optimize their roster for a potential postseason run in the competitive MLB playoff picture.

Oneil Cruz Returns from Concussion IL, Boosting Pirates' Offensive Potential

Following a successful rehabilitation assignment with Double-A Altoona, Oneil Cruz has been officially activated from the concussion injured list, providing a much-needed offensive jolt to the Pittsburgh Pirates. Manager Don Kelly expressed strong confidence in Cruz's immediate ability to contribute, highlighting his exceptional athleticism and raw power as vital assets for the Pirates’ lineup during this critical stretch of the MLB season. His return is a key factor in the team's playoff push.

Andrew Heaney Designated for Assignment Amid Performance Decline

To accommodate Cruz's activation and optimize their roster, the Pittsburgh Pirates made the tough decision to DFA veteran left-hander Andrew Heaney. This roster move was primarily driven by his sharp and undeniable decline in performance. While Heaney started the season strongly, his recent struggles were evident, highlighted by an 8.87 ERA over his last seven outings and a concerning 9.21 ERA across his final 14 appearances on the mound for the Pirates.

Contrary to some speculation, the Pittsburgh Pirates explicitly stated that the decision was not financially motivated, denying any attempt to avoid performance bonuses tied to innings pitched. Unlike the earlier controversy surrounding Rowdy Tellez, who was performing well when released just before a bonus milestone, Heaney's consistently declining effectiveness made his continued spot on the MLB roster unjustifiable. The team opted instead to prioritize the evaluation and development of younger pitchers, a strategic choice for their future.

Supporting Roster Moves and the Pittsburgh Pirates' Playoff Outlook

In addition to Oneil Cruz's activation and Andrew Heaney's DFA, the Pittsburgh Pirates also recalled right-handed reliever Dauri Moreta from Triple-A Indianapolis and optioned outfielder Ronny Simon to the same affiliate. These supporting roster moves further emphasize the organization’s commitment to utilizing its minor league depth to fine-tune their roster for optimal performance in MLB Baseball.

By choosing to retain Heaney and other players with expiring contracts at the trade deadline instead of dealing them, Pittsburgh signaled a clear intent to potentially recover assets for them later in the season. With the MLB playoff picture remaining intensely competitive as of September 1st, these decisive roster decisions underscore the team's unwavering determination to secure a coveted postseason spot amid tight divisional and Wild Card races. The Pittsburgh Pirates are all-in for their playoff push.

These strategic roster moves by the Pittsburgh Pirates, particularly the return of Oneil Cruz and the DFA of Andrew Heaney, reflect a clear commitment to maximizing their potential for a successful playoff push. By refining their roster with a focus on immediate impact and future evaluation, the team is positioning itself optimally to compete in the thrilling MLB playoff picture and achieve their postseason aspirations.