The Pittsburgh Pirates made a significant move by acquiring second baseman Brandon Lowe, outfielder Jake Mangum, and pitcher Mason Montgomery from the Tampa Bay Rays in a three-team trade involving the Houston Astros. The deal, which sent pitcher Mike Burrows to Houston, addresses key needs in the Pirates' lineup and outfield. Pirates general manager Ben Cherington described it as an aggressive step toward improving the team's offense.
On Friday, the Pittsburgh Pirates executed what Cherington called the most aggressive win-now trade of his tenure. In exchange for sending right-handed pitcher Mike Burrows to the Houston Astros, the Pirates gained Lowe—a left-handed power hitter who hit 31 home runs in an All-Star season—Mangum for outfield depth, and Montgomery, a lefty capable of throwing 100 mph.
The trade fills gaps in Pittsburgh's offense, particularly a need for a big left-handed bat and outfield stability. Lowe, who has battled injuries but is preparing to solidify second base this offseason, provides versatility. "The fact that he can play second, we believe, also keeps options open for us to add another bat in another spot," Cherington said during a Saturday Zoom call. He added that Lowe's character and competitiveness make him a strong clubhouse fit, complementing the infield's right-handed lean.
Mangum offers defensive tools suitable for PNC Park's left field, while prospect Jhostynxon Garcia could compete for outfield spots in spring training. Montgomery bolsters pitching depth. Cherington expressed interest in adding another proven major-league position player, possibly at third base or left field, without specifying targets.
Regarding the rotation, the Pirates traded Burrows and Johan Oviedo earlier but retain confidence in their starters, including Carmen Mlodzinski transitioning back to a starter role. Cherington indicated reluctance to trade more pitchers unless the return is an immediate lineup fit with replacement options.
The acquisition raises questions about infielder Nick Gonzales, who faced a tough 2025 after an ankle fracture. Cherington affirmed Gonzales as "an important player," suggesting a potential shift to third base or shortstop as he pushes for a major-league role. "He's just always met the challenge in front of him," Cherington noted.
