A pneumatic tire includes a tread base comprised of a first material, a tread cap comprised of a second material, and a plurality of plugs comprised of a third material. The tread cap is disposed radially outward of the tread base and in operational contact with a ground surface. The plurality of plugs are disposed at least partially within the tread cap. The plurality of plugs yield a tread stiffness in one direction greater than stiffness in at least one other direction.