Gerrit Cole’s departure from the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2018 marked a significant turning point in his career and the team’s future. Traded to the Houston Astros, Cole quickly transformed into one of the league’s premier pitchers, ultimately leading the Astros to a World Series title in 2019. His departure was driven by the Pirates’ decision to rebuild and cut costs, while Cole’s move allowed him to reach his ultimate potential. His success with the Astros underscored his skill and provided a stark contrast to the Pirates’ struggles in the following seasons. Cole’s exit highlighted the challenges and realities of team-building in Major League Baseball.