PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — This season, the Pirates have proven to be contenders for the first time in recent memory; but will it last?

Future Hall of Fame Pitcher John Smoltz told The Fan Morning Show that he thinks the Bucs have what it takes to compete for their division.

“I’m a firm believer that anytime a team sticks around longer than what is expected or even their own expectations, they start believing that they do belong,” Smoltz explained, “and then they see that the strength of the central — which teams have all had their issues — you just feel like you’re going to be up there and deal with a chance to win all year.”

“For the first time in, seems like forever,” Smoltz added, “Pittsburgh is in a position to not only add a player, but probably do something they haven’t done in a while and that’s not get rid of a player. I think for the city, I think for the organization, it’s gotta be a long time coming and I think for the fans, they’re just waiting to see — there may be a little bit of pessimism sitting there going, ‘Ok, when are they gonna fold?’ but the pitching’s strong, the defense and timely hitting is enough to get them in the position where they’re in. I think it’s good for baseball.”

The Pirates may have the night off, but if you need your baseball fix, tune into the MLB Network tonight at 7pm for the Yankees vs Rays.
Hear more about with Smoltz told The Fan about the Pirates and his preview of tonight’s Yankees vs. Rays matchup.