MLB: Pirates Overlooking Miguel Andujar's Potential; Here is What They Can Do

(Photo : Greg Fiume/Getty Images) WASHINGTON, DC - Miguel Andujar (#26) of the Pittsburgh Pirates celebrates with teammates after hitting a two-run home run in the sixth inning against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park

The Pittsburgh Pirates may have a gem in their mix in the person of third baseman Miguel Andujar. The 28-year-old outfielder has shown potential when given the chance.

However, sporadic playing time given to the Dominican player will not unleash what he truly brings to the game. Andujar has flashed power potential, but lack of playing time has contributed to his lack of consistency.

This has been the story of Miguel Andujar since he entered the league in 2018. He finished second to Shohei Ohtani in the AL Rookie of the Year race, mainly because he showed promise of being a great hitter, SNY.tv reported.

Unfortunately, things went downhill. He only played in 78 games in the next three seasons and unsurprisingly struggled.

With his stint with the New York Yankees falling apart, the Dominican was designated for assignment. The Pittsburgh Pirates claimed Andjuar off waivers, although he hasn't gotten many chances, hitting only .250.

Andujar started the 2023 season with Triple-A Indianapolis and showed some signs of life. His first call-up didn't go well, resulting in him being sent down again. But his second call was entirely different when he returned to the Pirates' active roster, SI.com reported.

Showing promise at bat

In the eight games since he was called up again, Andujar has gone 7-for-19 (.368) over six games per CBS Sports. The Dominican is now batting .240 over 52 plate appearances while tallying three home runs, 11 RBI, five runs scored, and three doubles.

Also worth noting in those games is that the Pirates went 5-3. This shows that if the Dominican gets more chances to hit, he could be a vital cog for the Pirates.

Hence, it all boils down to the playing opportunity that Andujar will get. More chances on the field can bring out the best in him, not to mention address the lack of consistency that critics are pointing out, per Rumbunter.