The Pittsburgh Pirates have re-signed Malcom Nunez to a minor league deal, according to Francys Romero. The 23-year-old corner infielder was eligible for free agency this offseason, after spending the 2024 season in Triple-A with the Pirates.
Nunez hit .250/.310/.365 with 11 home runs in 526 plate appearances. This was the second year he spent in Triple-A, after missing half the season with an injury at the level in 2023. Nunez saw a slight improvement in his ability to make contact, but was largely the same player he was the first time through the level.
The Pirates acquired Nunez at the 2022 trade deadline from the St. Louis Cardinals, along with RHP Johan Oviedo, for LHP Jose Quintana. At the time, he was in his age 21 season, and on the verge of the Triple-A level. He stood out in the lower levels for his high on-base ability, and easy power potential from a thick frame. While in Triple-A, Nunez hasn’t shown the defense to be a regular at third base, and he hasn’t shown the power to be a regular at first.
Nunez reached the Triple-A level at a young age, which drove his prospect status. He’s stalled with Indianapolis, but is young enough that he would be worth giving another opportunity. He’s young enough to give an opportunity even after the 2025 season. The Pirates clearly wanted him back, and will hope things finally click next season.
