How could Pirates GM Ben Charington see 'clear evidence' of progress in disappointing season?

North Shore Drive podcast - Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates, Penguins and more

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey recaps comments Wednesday by Pirates general manager Ben Cherington. Where exactly did Cherington see "clear evidence" of progress after his team matched its 2023 win total, in a disappointment to fans? How could he believe the club is doing "fine" in free agency and trades despite the struggles of players like Rowdy Tellez, Bryan De La Cruz and others? Why did he refuse to commit to bringing Andrew McCutchen back in 2025, despite him being one of the team's most productive offensive players? Did he admit to salary dumping Martin Perez so he could trade for Isiah Kiner-Falefa at the MLB trade deadline? Does he feel the strong rotation of Paul Skenes, Mitch Keller, Jared Jones, Luis Ortiz and Bailey Falter is adequate to compete next season? And why does he feel the team doesn't need a new hitting philosophy after the team finished 23rd in MLB in runs scored? Jason tackles those questions and more.