Several Reasons for Jared Triolo’s Hot Streak

Jared Triolo ended last year on a high note, creating some optimism headed into 2024. But his hot finish in 2023 didn’t carry over to the start of this season. 

Triolo opened the season as the Pittsburgh Pirates’ starting second baseman after winning a competition over the likes of Nick Gonzales and Liover Peguero. 

Despite sticking on the active roster for the entire season to date, Triolo ended up losing spot as the starting second baseman to Nick Gonzales, who the Pirates recalled in May.

It was around that time that Ke’Bryan Hayes went on the injured list due to a back issue. Triolo filled in for Hayes at the hot corner for a couple weeks but didn’t make the most of his chance there, either.

Once Hayes returned and Gonzales solidified himself as the Pirates’ starting second baseman, Triolo saw his role diminished in June and July. But Hayes’ lingering back issues popped up once again and landed back on the injured list on Aug. 19. 

Triolo was again asked to fill in, and this time, he’s taking advantage of his newest opportunity.

His latest display came on Wednesday afternoon, when he went 2 for 3 with a home run in the Pirates’ 3-1 win over the Marlins. 

A slight adjustment for Triolo has been a big reason for his recent success.

“I think (hitting coach Andy Haines) and (assistant hitting coach Christian Marrero) have done a good job. There has been a change in his setup,” manager Derek Shelton explained. “He’s in a stronger position to drive the ball. I think we’ve seen it. 

“Even the ball he hit (on Tuesday night), he hit it 102 mph to dead center that didn’t get out, but that’s a good swing. Earlier in the year I don’t think he was in a position to hit that ball. Now, I think he’s in a position to hit it.”

Since Aug. 17, Triolo is slashing .264/.377/.486 with seven extra-base hits including four homers and 15 RBIs in 23 games.  . 

He explained what he think has led to his uptick in production following Wednesday’s win.

“Just kind of staying consistent with my work. Like I’ve said before, swing adjustments happen all the time, regardless of whether you’re doing good or bat. I like where I’m at.”

Of course, swing adjustments only matter if they are used in games. With Hayes on the injured list, Triolo has proved to be a more than capable replacement for the 2023 Gold Glove winner given his struggles on the season.

Getting in a consistent routine by being in the lineup more often than not has also helped Triolo get on track.

“That also plays a factor,” he explained. “Just being out there everyday, being able to see the guys ahead of me in the lineup go through their at-bats and see how the pitcher  is pitching that day, that definitely helps too.”

It’s shaping up to be a similar end to this season as it was last year for Triolo. After he was recalled towards the end of last season, Triolo slashed .350/.458/.567 in 18 games to end the year.

While it would be a tall ask for Triolo to end this year with those types of numbers, finishing strong is important.

That’s all he cares about right now. 

“Just good confidence,” Triolo said on what a strong finish could do. “I haven’t really looked ahead to next season yet, but just trying to finish this one strong.”