Brandon Lowe, the Pittsburgh Pirates' veteran second baseman, is flirting with a milestone that has not been reached in the franchise for more than five decades. His current pace suggests he could become the first Pirate since Hall‑of‑Famer Willie Stargell to hit 40 home runs in a single season.
A benchmark that still resonates
Stargell's 1973 campaign remains the gold standard for power in Pittsburgh baseball history. The feat has become a reference point for every slugger who dons the black and gold, and Lowe is fully aware of the legacy he is being measured against.
At 20 homers already this year, Lowe is on a trajectory that could see him finish the season with a rare combination of power and production. He also sits at 57 RBIs, a statistic he values deeply because it reflects his ability to drive in runs for a team that is hungry for success.
The conversation around an All‑Star selection has grown louder, but fan voting can be unpredictable. Even if he does not start, the recognition of his overall impact is likely to persist throughout the summer months.
Lowe has hinted at a possible appearance in the Home Run Derby, though he has not committed to participating. The event would provide a national stage to showcase his power, but his focus remains on contributing to the Pirates' win total.
Beyond personal milestones, Lowe emphasizes a team‑first mindset. He views the chase for 40 homers and 100 RBIs as tools to help the club compete, rather than as ends in themselves.