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Mason Montgomery is Pirates breakout star for 2026

Mason Montgomery emerged as a standout relief pitcher for Pittsburgh during the 2026 campaign. After a difficult rookie year, he transformed into a dominant bullpen force, securing the closer role and establishing a new team record with 25 consecutive outings without allowing a run.

Across 70 appearances, he finished with a 6-4 record and a 2.88 ERA over 68.2 innings of work. The Pirates acquired Montgomery, Brandon Lowe, and Jake Mangum from Tampa Bay last offseason in a multi-team trade that sent Mike Burrows to Houston.

While Burrows struggled significantly with the Astros this year, the additions of Montgomery, Lowe, and Mangum provided Pittsburgh with substantial value throughout the season.

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