PT TOMORROW: NL Central—Current playing time allocations with long-term implications

Pittsburgh Pirates

Though it hasn’t necessarily netted the results the team had hoped for, the Pirates promoted several prospects this summer and have improved the long-term outlook of their big league club. Several of those promotions have come when players such as Ke’Bryan Hayes (3B, PIT) and Ji-Hwan Bae (2B/CF, PIT) landed on the injured list. Hayes’ role was secure due to both his defensive ability and sizable financial commitment, but Bae’s role upon his return was less clear.

Bae was activated from the injured list Aug. 18, and he has since been in the lineup for all three games. Not only that, but he’s led off in each contest, something he had done only seven times in the three months prior to his injuries. He’s benefited from

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

For the NL West this week, we take a close look at Randy Vásquez's velocity changes, a looming pitching surprise in Arizona, and playing time outlooks for young guys trying to make a name for themselves.
Apr 4 2026 3:07am
CJ Kayfus had a bad night in left field on Sunday. Could it hurt his playing time going forward? Plus, a look at early lineups in CHW and DET, the closer situation in KC, and positional flexibility for the Twins C.J. Culpepper.
Apr 2 2026 3:05am
With Bryan Abreu's early season struggles, is there a change to be made at closer in Houston?
Apr 1 2026 3:05am
Jesús Sánchez (pictured) and Nathan Lukes are jockeying for at-bats in left field for Toronto. Plus, more fallout from the first weekend of action in 2026.
Mar 31 2026 3:05am

Tools