Watch Pirates’ Oneil Cruz feed Punxsutawney Phil a banana

Two of the more prominent figures in Pennsylvania today converged in PNC Park. Punxsutawney Phil, the most important and recognizable groundhog on the planet, was in town to participate in the ceremonial first pitch ahead of Thursday’s game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and St. Louis Cardinals. While taking a break from his duties, the famous mammal got in the mood for a snack. Oneil Cruz obliged.

The Pirates slugger gave Phil a banana, which appeared to be received with appreciation, per the Talkin’ Baseball X account. When he is not feeding the legendary prognosticator, Cruz is satisfying fans’ hunger for home runs.

You probably didn't think you would see a video of Oneil Cruz feeding Punxsutawney Phil a banana today. You were wrong pic.twitter.com/Se72zWVCz4

— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) May 1, 2026

The 6-foot-7 center fielder entered Friday’s series-opener versus the Cincinnati Reds with nine dingers, 26 RBIs, a .256 batting average, .321 on-base percentage, .512 slugging percentage, .833 OPS and 10 stolen bases through 30 games. He is swinging a confident bat early in his age-27 campaign. Pittsburgh has been waiting for Cruz to truly erupt.

The Dominican talent debuted with the Pirates as an extolled shortstop who boasted incredible physical tools and advanced offensive metrics. He has weathered some turbulence over the last six years, however, which includes a high strikeout rate and a position change. But perhaps better days have arrived.

Management still believes Oneil Cruz can help facilitate a Buccos rebirth. The left-handed hitter has kept Pittsburgh (16-16) afloat in a fierce National League Central division, and if this squad has any hopes of ending its decade-long playoffs drought, he must continue to produce.

Punxsutawney Phil has seemingly given his seal of approval, so only good things should follow Cruz in 2026.

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