Episode Details

a { text-decoration: none; color: #464feb; } tr th, tr td { border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; } tr th { background-color: #f5f5f5; }

Braxton Ashcraft isn’t flashy — but he might be becoming one of the most trusted arms in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ rotation.

In today’s episode of Locked On Pirates, we break down why Ashcraft’s spring performance is forcing a real conversation about his role in the 2026 rotation, trust, and workload. With elite command, minimal walks, and a calm presence on the mound, Ashcraft is starting to look less like “one of the names” and more like a pillar behind Paul Skenes.

On today’s show:

• Why Braxton Ashcraft’s spring stats tell a deeper story than ERA
• How trust, command, and usage matter more than raw stuff
• Pirates–Tigers Spring Breakout preview and why it still matters without the headliners
• AMA questions on innings limits, player development failures, Don Kelly pressure, and a dark‑horse award candidate for 2026
  
  Everydayer Club
  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

PlayStation
This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit https://mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.

Turbo Tax
Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. You can meet face-to-face with a real tax expert, and your documents get uploaded straight to your TurboTax app on the spot. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to find a store near you and book your appointment today.

Robinhood
You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood.
Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm.

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game.
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or vi