Pirates Waive Outfielder Ji Hwan Bae

On November 6, 2025, the Pittsburgh Pirates made a significant roster move by placing outfielder Ji Hwan Bae on waivers. This decision has sparked discussions among baseball fans and analysts, as Bae was once considered a top prospect in the Pirates’ organization.

Background on Ji Hwan Bae

Ji Hwan Bae, a South Korean outfielder, began his professional career with the Pirates’ organization. He made his MLB debut in 2024 and showed promise with his speed and defensive skills. However, Bae struggled to find consistency at the plate, leading to a demotion to Triple-A Indianapolis in 2025.

Throughout his time in the minor leagues, Bae showcased his potential by posting solid numbers, including a .292 batting average, .380 on-base percentage, and 23 stolen bases in 67 games. Despite his success in Triple-A, Bae’s performance in the majors left much to be desired, as he recorded only one hit in 20 at-bats during the 2025 season.

The Waiver Process

Placing a player on waivers means that the team is giving other clubs the opportunity to claim the player and add him to their roster. In Bae’s case, the New York Mets decided to claim him off waivers, signaling a new chapter in his career.

It is common for teams to waive players who are struggling or no longer fit into their long-term plans. In the case of Ji Hwan Bae, the Pirates may have felt that his lack of production at the major league level warranted a change in direction.

Reactions and Speculations

Following the news of Bae being placed on waivers, baseball fans and analysts have shared their opinions on social media and sports platforms. Some believe that the Mets made a wise decision in claiming Bae, as he still has untapped potential that could benefit their team.

Others speculate that Bae’s time with the Pirates may be coming to an end, especially after facing criticism for his low batting average and limited offensive contributions. However, there is also optimism surrounding Bae’s future, with some suggesting that a change of scenery could help him reach his full potential.

Looking Ahead

As Ji Hwan Bae transitions to a new team, the baseball world will be watching closely to see how he adapts to his new environment. Whether he can overcome his struggles at the plate and make a positive impact remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – Bae’s journey in the MLB is far from over.