Just before the 2026 All-Star Game break, the Pirates grabbed some depth pieces in a three-player trade with the Chicago White Sox. Former first-round pick Jacob Gonzalez and reliever Brandon Eisert went to Pittsburgh in exchange for reliever Jaden Woods and a 2026 MLB Draft pick.
The Pirates’ Return
- INF Jacob Gonzalez (.244/.323/.360, two HR & six XBH over 30 GP)
- RP Brandon Eisert (5.93 ERA, 32 K over 27.1 IP)
Jacob Gonzalez went from a prospect on the fringe to a notable name after what was a monstrous season with the Triple-A Charlotte Knights. Before Gonzalez earned his first promotion to the Majors in late May, the White Sox infielder led the International League in home runs.
Now, the power numbers weren’t great in his first stint up in the Majors. Gonzalez only had six extra-base hits over 97 plate appearances with the Sox, far from what he produced in Charlotte. However, it wasn’t that had of a run.
For one, Gonzalez didn’t strike out, nor swing-and-miss all that much. He showed the ability to pounce and pull, which resulted in a very heavy 40% Pull% rate with Chicago (AL).
There’s upside here, although it may not be comparable to the pace Gonzalez had in Triple-A earlier this year.
Aside from Gonzalez, the Pirates also acquired relief pitcher Brandon Eisert. While he doesn’t throw very hard, the 28-year-old reliever checks all the boxes despite a high ERA. Plenty of chase, swing-and-miss, and strike throwing.
Doesn’t throw hard, as Eisert capped out at 92 MPH this season. He also had some problems keeping the ball in the yard, as he conceded six home runs over 27.1 IP. His .336 opponents’ wOBA was one of the worst in the Majors this year.
The White Sox’ Return
- RP Jaden Woods (4.58 ERA, 55 K over 37.1 IP (AA & AAA))
- 34th pick in 2026 MLB Draft
Big strikeout numbers from Jaden Woods, a 24-year-old reliever picked in the seventh round by the Pirates back in 2023 out of the University of Georgia.
Fastball up to 98 MPH in Triple-A. Will throw a sinker, occasional four-seamer, plus a low-to-mid-80s slider as his primary secondary pitch.
The White Sox also get the 34th pick in the 2026 MLB Draft.
Analysis
The Pirates get some upside with Gonzalez, who does fit the Pirates’ team to a certain extent thanks to his batted-ball profile. Plus, he’ll likely have more of an opportunity with the Pirates, as Gonzalez — a primary first baseman this season — was blocked in Chicago by Munetaka Murakami.
But more importantly, the Pirates also get some relief pitcher depth, something needed for a bullpen that ranked 23rd in team ERA (4.53) as of July 11.
As for the White Sox, Chicago gains some flexibility by clearing two 40-man roster spots. But more importantly, also picked up some more financial flexibility for the 2026 MLB Draft by grabbing another first-round pick. Not only will that be another opportunity to get a good prospect but also the bonus slot money that comes with it.
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