Oneil Cruz – Pittsburgh Pirates Biography, Contract, Net Worth Information

Oneil Cruz has quickly made a name for himself since joining the Pittsburgh Pirates. At 6’7″ and 240 pounds, he brings a blend of size and athleticism you just don’t see at shortstop.

Cruz is earning $785,000 on his one-year contract with the Pirates, and he’s built up a net worth estimated at $2,087,656.

He’s only 25, but Cruz has already done what few Pirates have—he became the tenth player in team history to notch at least 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases in a season.

He’s got physical tools that let him crush the ball and run with surprising speed for his size.

But Cruz’s journey hasn’t been all smooth sailing. He’s still working on his game, and the Pirates are trying to build a solid team around him.

Baseball analysts often call him one of the most unique physical specimens in the sport.

If he stays healthy and keeps improving, he could be in line for a much bigger contract when arbitration and free agency roll around.

Early Life and Background

Cruz’s path to Major League Baseball started in the Dominican Republic, where baseball isn’t just a pastime—it’s a lifeline for many kids.

His early years shaped him into the standout athlete fans see today.

Birthplace and Family

Oneil Cruz was born on October 4, 1998, in Nizao, a small coastal town in the Dominican Republic.

This place has turned out more than a few professional ballplayers over the years.

He grew up with modest means, much like a lot of Dominican prospects chasing a shot at a better life through baseball.

There’s not much public info about his immediate family.

Still, it’s safe to say, based on so many Dominican players’ stories, that family support played a big part in his development.

Communities in the Dominican Republic often rally around their young baseball hopefuls, building informal networks to help them along.

Early Baseball Influences

Cruz sharpened his skills on sandlots and makeshift fields that are everywhere in the Dominican Republic.

Unlike American kids who play in organized Little Leagues, Dominican prospects usually train in informal academies.

Locals call these academies “buscones.” They give young players training and try to get them noticed by MLB scouts.

Cruz’s height and athleticism made him stand out early—at 6’7″, he was hard to miss.

Coaches in his community saw his potential and worked with him, especially on his swing and throwing arm.

Path to Professional Baseball

Cruz signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers as an international free agent. The Dodgers took a chance on his raw talent.

He started working his way through the minor leagues, and his size and athleticism kept drawing attention.

His time in the minors helped him learn discipline at the plate and on defense.

In 2017, the Dodgers traded Cruz to the Pittsburgh Pirates in a deadline deal.

He kept progressing through the Pirates’ farm system, eventually becoming one of their top prospects.

His stints with San Jose and other affiliates showed off his growing skills and hinted at his MLB potential.

Professional Career Highlights

Cruz has quickly become a standout since joining the Pittsburgh Pirates. His rare athleticism and size make him a prospect with huge upside, though he hasn’t had it easy.

Major League Debut and Development

Cruz debuted for the Pittsburgh Pirates on October 2, 2021. Fans and scouts immediately noticed his 6’7″ frame—he just doesn’t look like your typical shortstop.

He worked his way up through the minors after the Dodgers traded him.

In 2022, Cruz got called up for good and started showing what he could do.

He posted eye-popping exit velocity numbers and sprint speeds, putting him among baseball’s top athletes.

His throws from shortstop often topped 95 mph, setting Statcast-era records for infield assists.

The Pirates wanted him to sharpen his defensive positioning and plate discipline to go along with his natural gifts.

Performance and Statistics

Cruz’s stats show off his power and athleticism.

His first real MLB action saw a modest batting average, but he flashed serious extra-base power.

He consistently ranked near the top for exit velocity, smashing some of the hardest-hit balls in the league.

Advanced metrics (like wRC+) show his offensive production is already above average when he’s healthy.

In 2023, he started the season strong but then got hurt.

Before his injury, he was batting .237 and showing better plate discipline and power to all fields.

His mix of power and speed made him one of the Pirates’ most valuable players.

Notable Games and Milestones

Cruz has already had some wild moments on the field.

He set a Statcast-era record with a 122.4 mph single against the Braves in 2022.

He also became MLB’s tallest shortstop at 6’7″, breaking a record that had stood for years.

In 2022, he went 4-for-5 with a homer and two doubles against the Cubs—one of those games where everything just clicked.

His defense is just as jaw-dropping. He’s fired throws over 97 mph, the fastest infield throws ever recorded.

Cruz also launched a 463-foot home run at PNC Park, one of the longest blasts in the stadium’s history.

Recovery and Setbacks

Cruz’s career hasn’t been free of setbacks.

In April 2023, he fractured his left ankle in a collision at home plate with the White Sox, which ended his season.

The Pirates’ medical staff took a careful approach to his recovery, making sure he healed fully.

That injury cut short what looked like a breakout year.

He’s had injury issues before, even in the minors, which slowed his development.

The Pirates have shown patience, sticking with him through these tough stretches.

Cruz is under club control through 2028, but staying healthy will be key if he wants to reach his ceiling.

Fans and the team are watching closely as he works his way back.

Contract Details and Salary

Cruz’s contract with the Pirates reflects his potential and where he’s at in his career. His current salary, contract history, and future earnings all tell the story of a young player on the rise.

Current Contract Overview

Right now, Cruz is playing on a contract that’s pretty modest for his talent.

As of 2023, he’s making a salary of $720,000 a year with the Pirates.

That’s near the MLB minimum, which is normal for players before they hit arbitration.

The Pirates have control over his contract and can renew it each year until he’s eligible for arbitration.

At this stage, his deal doesn’t include big bonuses or incentives.

The team has kept payroll tight in recent years, focusing on developing young players like Cruz and avoiding big financial commitments.

It’s a cautious approach that lets them evaluate Cruz’s long-term value.

Previous Contracts and Negotiations

Cruz started out in the Dodgers’ system before the trade.

His first minor league contract reflected his status as a developing international prospect.

The Pirates renewed his contract for 2023, using their right to set his salary as a pre-arbitration player.

He’d already shown flashes of his potential in limited MLB time.

So far, his contract history has been pretty simple, without any drawn-out negotiations.

Like most young players, his bargaining power is limited by MLB’s rules.

Upcoming Free Agency and Future Projections

Cruz won’t hit free agency until after the 2028 season.

He’ll be eligible for arbitration first, possibly after 2025.

The Pirates might try to lock him up with an extension before arbitration comes around.

That’s become common in MLB, giving players security and teams some cost certainty.

Cruz’s net worth is estimated at $2,087,656, but that number could jump if he stays healthy and keeps producing.

He’s got the size (6’7″) and athleticism to land a big payday down the road.

If he puts it all together, analysts think he could command a major contract in arbitration or free agency.

Net Worth and Financial Profile

Cruz is still early in his career, but he’s already started building a solid financial base. His main earnings come from his MLB contract, with more growth likely ahead.

Estimated Net Worth

Right now, Cruz’s net worth is around $2,087,656.

That’s based on what he’s made with the Pirates so far.

His main income is his MLB salary, which is currently $785,000 a year.

He hasn’t hit the huge paydays that veteran MLB stars get, but he’s on the right track.

Given his age and talent, his financial future looks bright—especially if he lands a long-term deal after proving himself.

Endorsements and Sponsorships

Details about Cruz’s endorsements aren’t public, but brands are starting to notice him.

His size and playing style make him a natural fit for baseball gear companies, apparel brands, and Dominican businesses looking to reach baseball fans.

A lot of MLB players end up making 20-40% of their income from endorsements.

Cruz’s marketability comes from his height, power, and status as one of the most physically impressive players in the league.

Financial Management and Security

Cruz probably works with financial advisors, like most pros do, to manage his growing wealth.

The MLB Players Association offers resources to help guys make smart financial moves.

Players often set aside money for investments, retirement, and other safety nets to prepare for life after baseball.

For international players like Cruz, financial planning sometimes means helping family back home and building security for the future.

The average MLB career is just 5.6 years, so smart financial management matters.

Some invest in real estate or business ventures, or even go back to school.

At his age, Cruz has time to build a strong financial foundation.

Personal Life and Off-Field Contributions

Away from the field, Cruz balances family life with giving back to his community.

His Dominican roots are still a big part of who he is as he forges connections off the diamond.

Family and Interests

Oneil Cruz was born on October 4, 1998, in the Dominican Republic. He keeps close ties with his homeland and family.

The towering 6-foot-7 athlete often credits his family for helping him along his baseball journey, from Nizao all the way to the major leagues. He likes to spend his off-seasons back home in the Dominican Republic, where he reconnects with extended family and the local community.

Cruz doesn’t just live and breathe baseball. He’s got a thing for music and cars too, sometimes posting about these interests on social media. You might say he’s got a bit of a private side, especially when it comes to his personal relationships.

Even as his fame grows with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Cruz tries hard to stay grounded. He’s said in interviews that keeping his feet on the ground matters a lot to him.

Community Involvement and Philanthropy

Cruz does more than just play shortstop—he’s gotten involved in different charitable efforts. You’ll often spot him at Pirates community events, especially ones focused on youth baseball in neighborhoods that need it most.

Back home in the Dominican Republic, Cruz works to get baseball equipment and better training facilities to young players. He knows firsthand how tough it can be for talented kids from less privileged backgrounds.

The Pirates organization backs Cruz’s philanthropic work through their community relations department. Together, they set up baseball clinics where Cruz teaches kids who look up to him.

In the off-season, Cruz sometimes visits hospitals and schools in both Pittsburgh and the Dominican Republic. He seems determined to give back in ways that go well beyond what he does on the field.

Teammates, Coaches, and Impact on the Pirates

Inside the Pittsburgh Pirates organization, Oneil Cruz has built strong relationships that have shaped both his own career and the team’s direction. His unique talents have made a visible mark on team dynamics and decisions.

Key Teammates and Collaborations

Cruz has teamed up with several important Pirates players. His middle-infield partnership with Ke’Bryan Hayes stands out; Hayes brings defensive skills that pair nicely with Cruz’s powerful arm.

Andrew McCutchen, the veteran outfielder, has taken Cruz under his wing since coming back to the Pirates. This mentorship has played a big role in Cruz’s growth as both a player and a leader.

Cruz’s recent move to center field has shaken up the outfield dynamics with Bryan Reynolds and Jack Suwinski. The Pirates now field a mix of power and speed that’s changed how they defend.

He’s also found chemistry with Ji Hwan Bae in the batting order, sparking the offense and giving the team more chances to score.

Coaching Staff and Management

Manager Derek Shelton has overseen Cruz’s development, even through some tough injuries. Shelton made the gutsy call to shift Cruz from shortstop to center field in 2024, hoping to get the most out of Cruz’s athleticism and maybe even lengthen his career.

General Manager Ben Cherington keeps showing faith in Cruz as a franchise cornerstone. His choices about Cruz’s position and contract really show the team’s long-term plans.

The Pirates’ hitting coaches have spent a lot of time helping Cruz refine his approach at the plate. They want him to keep his raw power but make more consistent contact, and they’re careful not to mess with what makes him unique.

Some reports mention that relationships between players and management haven’t always been smooth. The New York Times even pointed out concerns about the organization being “comfortable being mediocre.””

Team Building and Trades

The Pirates see Cruz as the heart of their rebuilding plan. Honestly, his presence has shaped who they bring in, since the team keeps looking for players who fit his style and timeline.

When they picked up Michael A. Taylor, they wanted Cruz to have a veteran center fielder to lean on before switching positions. Moves like that show how the Pirates deliberately add experienced players to help their young guys grow.

Fans haven’t held back when criticizing the front office for trading away pitchers like Clay Holmes—especially since he’s thrived elsewhere. Those trades have left Cruz and the rest of the young core with less pitching help than they probably need.

Cruz’s rise has happened right as the Pirates avoid big free agent contracts. Instead, they’re doubling down on developing their own prospects alongside Cruz, like Mitch Keller and relievers David Bednar and Colin Holderman.

Now, the team faces a tough call: do they offer Cruz a huge contract extension—maybe over $200 million? Or do they trade him for prospects as his salary keeps climbing through arbitration?