The Pittsburgh Pirates are looking to turn the page on a frustrating chapter of offensive struggles by bringing in a familiar face to help revitalize their lineup. On Monday, the team announced that Matt Hague would be their new hitting coach, replacing Andy Haines, who was dismissed after the Pirates’ offense finished in the bottom 10 of nearly every major statistical category last season.
Hague, who was originally drafted by the Pirates in the ninth round of the 2008 MLB Draft, returns to Pittsburgh after spending the 2023 season as an assistant hitting coach with the Toronto Blue Jays. His journey to this position has been unique, marked by a blend of major league experience and a steady climb through the coaching ranks.
The 2023 Season: An Offensive Struggle
In 2023, the Pirates’ offense was a glaring weakness that kept them from seriously contending in the National League Central. The team finished with a disappointing 76-86 record for the second consecutive season, and much of the blame for their inability to keep pace with the league’s best rested on their lack of offensive production. Pittsburgh ranked 24th in the majors in runs and 25th in home runs, while also setting a club record with 1,504 strikeouts. Only the Colorado Rockies had more strikeouts in the National League.
The numbers tell a story of an offense that couldn’t consistently generate offense or sustain rallies. Despite having standout rookie pitchers like Paul Skenes and Jared Jones—both of whom showed promise in their first taste of the big leagues—the Pirates couldn’t provide enough support to keep pace in a division that’s become more competitive. As a result, the front office is now looking for a major overhaul of their approach at the plate.
Matt Hague: A New Voice with Familiar Ties
Hague, at 39 years old, is a Pittsburgh native who knows the organization well. While he had a modest major league career—appearing in just 84 at-bats with the Pirates and Blue Jays from 2012-2014—his experience in the minors and overseas has shaped him into a capable and knowledgeable coach. After his playing career wound down, including a brief stint in Japan in 2016, Hague turned to coaching and became a well-respected figure in baseball development.
His time with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2023, where he served as an assistant hitting coach, saw him work with one of the more potent lineups in baseball, including young stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette. That experience should prove invaluable as he works with a Pirates roster that includes established stars like Bryan Reynolds and rising talents who are still finding their footing at the plate.
Hague’s appointment is a clear signal from the Pirates that they are committed to improving their offensive identity and developing a more disciplined, productive approach at the plate. As a former hitter, Hague understands the intricacies of the game, from pitch recognition to situational hitting. His task now is to instill those same principles in a Pirates offense that has too often been plagued by high strikeout rates and an inability to capitalize with runners in scoring position.
Looking Ahead: The Pirates’ Offseason Plans
Hague’s hiring is part of a larger effort to reshape the Pirates’ roster and offensive philosophy. With veteran outfielder Bryan Reynolds anchoring the lineup, the team will likely focus its offseason on adding more impact bats and improving its ability to generate consistent offense. While the pitching staff—led by the likes of Skenes, Jones, and fellow young arms—looks promising, the Pirates’ path to success will depend on whether they can fix their offensive woes.
A more disciplined approach at the plate, an emphasis on contact, and a reduction in strikeouts will be key areas of focus for Hague and his staff. With Reynolds set to be a fixture in the lineup and other potential breakout candidates like Ke’Bryan Hayes and Oneil Cruz still under team control, the Pirates have the pieces to become a more well-rounded team—but it will take a commitment to change.
Final Thoughts
The Pittsburgh Pirates are clearly hoping that Matt Hague’s return to the organization will provide a jolt to an offense that has lagged behind in recent years. As a former Pirate and a coach who has spent time with some of the game’s top hitters, Hague has the experience and knowledge to help the Pirates move forward.
If he can help develop young talent, refine the veterans, and instill a more patient and productive approach at the plate, Hague could be the catalyst for Pittsburgh’s next step toward relevance in the National League. The task ahead is daunting, but the Pirates have made it clear that they’re willing to make the necessary changes to build a competitive team. Time will tell whether Hague is the right man to lead the charge.
