Locked On Pirates - Daily Podcast On The Pittsburgh Pirates

Locked On Pirates podcast is your daily ticket to stay ahead of the game and the first to know the latest news, analysis, and insider info for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Major League Baseball. Hosted by Ethan Smith, a writer for Inside the Bucs, the Locked On Pirates podcast provides your daily Pirates fix with expert, local analysis, and coverage of all aspects of the Pirates franchise. Locked On Pirates takes you beyond the scoreboard for the inside scoops on the biggest stories from within the Pirates locker room and all over MLB. The Locked On Pirates podcast is part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

  1. LEGEND: How Elroy Face and the Pittsburgh Pirates REINVENTED Relief Pitching for Baseball History

    20H AGO

    LEGEND: How Elroy Face and the Pittsburgh Pirates REINVENTED Relief Pitching for Baseball History

    Elroy Face redefined the Pittsburgh Pirates bullpen with his legendary forkball and an unshakable poise that changed MLB history. Can a pitcher standing just 5'8", 155 pounds become the most feared reliever in baseball? Face’s 18-1 masterpiece season, National League record 96 relief wins, and clutch World Series performances proved it’s possible. Gary Morgan celebrates Face’s impact as a Pirates Hall of Famer and pioneer of the modern closer role, sharing personal memories and insights on how Face’s creativity, grit, and innovation revolutionized relief pitching. Key moments include Face’s transformation under Danny Murtaugh, tales from Pirates alumni, and his enduring influence on the game’s evolving strategies. Did Face’s era make him the ultimate closer? Discover why the Pirates—and baseball—will never forget the Baron of the Bullpen. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started.    FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    11 min
  2. UNTAPPED: Henry Davis Overhauls Swing, Will Pirates Fans WITNESS a Dramatic RISE This Season?

    1D AGO

    UNTAPPED: Henry Davis Overhauls Swing, Will Pirates Fans WITNESS a Dramatic RISE This Season?

    Pittsburgh Pirates shake up spring training as Henry Davis arrives with a rebuilt swing, aiming to transform the catcher position from a black hole to a potential All-Star asset. Can Davis’s biomechanical overhaul finally unlock his offensive future and boost the Buccos’ lineup early? AJ Burnett returns to Bradenton, injecting accountability and competitive fire into a young pitching staff searching for leadership and identity. Gary Morgan breaks down Davis’s hitting changes, Burnett’s impact on pitchers like Paul Skenes and Jared Jones, and the urgent need for vocal clubhouse leaders. Highlights include Greg Brown’s home run call predictions for new Pirates hitters, Andrew McCutchen rumors, and insider tips on maximizing your spring training trip in Bradenton. Will this new-look Pirates squad redefine expectations and impose their will from Opening Day? Don’t miss this energized look at Pittsburgh baseball’s evolution. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started.    FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    32 min
  3. ANALYZE This: Pittsburgh Pirates Make the Jared Jones 60-Day IL Move—Here’s What It MEANS

    3D AGO

    ANALYZE This: Pittsburgh Pirates Make the Jared Jones 60-Day IL Move—Here’s What It MEANS

    Pittsburgh Pirates keep fans guessing by placing Jared Jones on the 60-day IL—even as he throws bullpens with no injury setbacks. Is this the smartest roster management move of the offseason? Gary Morgan unpacks the real reason behind the decision, dispelling rumors of a hidden injury and revealing how the club leverages the IL clock to align perfectly with Jones’ recovery from internal brace surgery. Find out how this procedural tactic benefits both Jones’ timeline and Pittsburgh’s 40-man flexibility, while Jose Urquidy joins the roster. The breakdown continues with an inside look at Nick Gonzales’ offensive and defensive adjustments at shortstop, highlighting improved mechanics, fastball tracking, and positional versatility. Will these tweaks help Gonzalez secure a starter’s role or expand his impact across multiple infield spots? Stay tuned for expert insights into the Pirates’ developmental strategies and how these moves set the stage for a stronger rotation by midseason. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    12 min
  4. KONNOR BUZZ: Pirates Betting BIG on Griffin—Will Pittsburgh LAUNCH Their Phenom at Shortstop?

    4D AGO

    KONNOR BUZZ: Pirates Betting BIG on Griffin—Will Pittsburgh LAUNCH Their Phenom at Shortstop?

    Pittsburgh Pirates fans buzz about Konnor Griffin’s rapid ascent—could the 19-year-old phenom claim the Opening Day shortstop job? National outlets hype Griffin’s chances, but questions linger about realistic expectations, team control dynamics, and whether Ben Cherington might break tradition for a flawless spring performance. Gary Morgan explores Griffin’s meteoric rise, dissecting prospect hype versus genuine roster possibilities, and what must happen for a debut straight from Double-A. Pirates intensify their pursuit of third base depth, eyeing Casey Schmitt from the San Francisco Giants and evaluating trade targets to strengthen the left side of the infield. Morgan evaluates potential moves, weighs the value of versatile defenders, and considers the prospect cost involved. Key listener AMAs spotlight whether PNC Park’s left field should be shortened for righty power and if Andrew McCutchen’s fate is truly sealed with Cherrington at the helm. Pirates baseball gets the deep analysis only locked-on fans crave! Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    32 min
  5. STUNNING: Paul Skenes’ playoff-or-bust MINDSET could TRANSFORM the Pittsburgh Pirates THIS SEASON

    4D AGO

    STUNNING: Paul Skenes’ playoff-or-bust MINDSET could TRANSFORM the Pittsburgh Pirates THIS SEASON

    Paul Skenes sets the tone for the Pittsburgh Pirates with a blunt mission: make the playoffs, no excuses. Gary Morgan unpacks Skenes’ powerful message at Pirate City, exploring how the phenom’s no-nonsense attitude could shift a clubhouse weighed down by years of losing and “wait till next year” mentality. Is this the culture reset the Pirates desperately need? The episode goes beyond Skenes’ comments, raising pointed questions about accountability, expectations, and the danger of nostalgia for a team striving for relevance. Gary also dives into the lore and quirks of Pirates player nicknames, from Pops and The Great One to current monikers like Password, Gonzo, and the emerging debate around what fits Paul Skenes best. Will the Pirates finally play like a club that expects wins—not just hopes for them? Tune in for sharp analysis on why Skenes is already leading off the mound and what it means for Pittsburgh baseball. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    11 min
  6. SENSIBLE MOVES: Pirates MULL Joey Bart TRADE as Payroll LIMITS are STILL a thing

    5D AGO

    SENSIBLE MOVES: Pirates MULL Joey Bart TRADE as Payroll LIMITS are STILL a thing

    Pittsburgh Pirates weigh trading Joey Bart to free up budget space—could this sensible, unsexy move reshape their 2026 lineup? Gary Morgan examines potential impacts, questions whether Endy Rodriguez and Rafael Flores are truly ready behind the plate, and highlights the team’s pursuit of a lefty starter. Key insights include why Mitch Keller and Brian Reynolds aren’t likely trade candidates, how the pitching staff’s depth concerns are real, and why moving foundational players might defeat the Pirates’ efforts to strengthen their offense. Three Rivers Stadium’s 25-year implosion anniversary sparks a look at Pittsburgh’s baseball legacy, as fans reflect on memories from the concrete donut to the palace at PNC Park. Morgan tackles AMA questions about the pitching staff’s reliability and Ben Cherington’s controversial decision to sign Marcel Ozuna, challenging fans to reconsider expectations and the meaning of team culture. Will the Pirates find balance as they cement the next era at PNC Park? Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    31 min
  7. Are the Pittsburgh Pirates Offense Upgrades Enough To SHOCK the NL This Year?

    5D AGO

    Are the Pittsburgh Pirates Offense Upgrades Enough To SHOCK the NL This Year?

    Pittsburgh Pirates fans are trading hope for real expectations as the 2026 season begins. With the arrival of proven hitters like Jake Mangum, Password Garcia, Brandon Lau, Ryan O'Hearn, and Marcell Ozuna, the offense looks poised for a dramatic turnaround. Can Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds return to form and anchor a lineup that just added 70 home runs and nearly 200 RBIs on paper? Gary Morgan weighs the upside of prospects like Konnor Griffin while highlighting the reality of established power in a newly rejuvenated roster. The discussion spotlights defensive challenges—especially at shortstop and third base—and questions if steady hands like Jared Triolo and Griffin can elevate the infield. On the mound, Paul Skenes leads a high-ceiling pitching staff packed with youth and risk, including Bubba Chandler and Hunter Barco. Are these Pirates ready to end their playoff drought and bring October baseball back to PNC Park?   Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    32 min
  8. SHOCK: Pittsburgh Pirates LAND Marcel Ozuna, Andrew McCutchen ERA OVER? BIG Changes AHEAD

    6D AGO

    SHOCK: Pittsburgh Pirates LAND Marcel Ozuna, Andrew McCutchen ERA OVER? BIG Changes AHEAD

    Pittsburgh Pirates shake up their roster by signing Marcell Ozuna to a $12M deal, leaving Andrew McCutchen’s future hanging in the balance. Is this the end of an era for a franchise icon, or can Kutch carve out a new role amid rising playoff pressure? Gary Morgan breaks down the Ozuna acquisition, spotlighting the power bat’s recent stats, lingering questions about his controversial history, and the on-paper upgrade he represents at designated hitter. Roster construction takes center stage as Brandon Lowe, Ryan O’Hearn, and Spencer Horwitz jostle for starting spots, while potential trades for Isaac Paredes or Mark Vientos could further reshape the Pirates’ infield. Key conversations revolve around the team’s push for postseason relevance, Bob Nutting’s delayed leadership, and the uncomfortable choices facing McCutchen. Can Pittsburgh finally turn the corner, or will the fallout from these moves define the 2025 season?   Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    36 min
3.9
out of 5
105 Ratings

About

Locked On Pirates podcast is your daily ticket to stay ahead of the game and the first to know the latest news, analysis, and insider info for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Major League Baseball. Hosted by Ethan Smith, a writer for Inside the Bucs, the Locked On Pirates podcast provides your daily Pirates fix with expert, local analysis, and coverage of all aspects of the Pirates franchise. Locked On Pirates takes you beyond the scoreboard for the inside scoops on the biggest stories from within the Pirates locker room and all over MLB. The Locked On Pirates podcast is part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

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