Pirates Make Bold Move, Offer Deal to Slugger Kyle Schwarber
The Pittsburgh Pirates are making headlines as they explore significant changes during the MLB offseason. Under the leadership of Pirates president Travis Williams, the team hinted at substantial investments to enhance their roster.
Pirates Make Bold Move to Offer Deal to Slugger Kyle Schwarber
Recent reports indicate that the Pirates have offered Kyle Schwarber a four-year contract likely exceeding $100 million. Schwarber, a powerful left-handed hitter, spent the last four seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies. Last season, he achieved impressive statistics, hitting 56 home runs and driving in 132 runs, both career highs.
However, acquiring Schwarber is not guaranteed. The Pirates are viewed as a “long shot” to secure his services, with other teams like the Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets, and Cincinnati Reds also in pursuit. To lure Schwarber, the Pirates may need to consider a five-year contract valued at around $30 million annually, a substantial increase from their previous spending habits.
Previous Spending Patterns
The Pirates’ past spending reflects their cautious approach. Their most significant long-term commitment was an eight-year, $106.75 million extension to Bryan Reynolds in 2023. Additionally, the largest free-agent contract they have ever awarded was $39 million to left-hander Francisco Liriano in 2014, and they have avoided multi-year deals since 2017.
Schwarber’s Fit with the Pirates
As a designated hitter for 154 of his 162 games last season, Schwarber could rejuvenate a Pirates lineup struggling to produce runs. Yet, his performance at PNC Park has been mixed. With a career average of .207 and an OPS of .751 at the venue, his past struggles may raise questions about his fit. Nevertheless, his powerful hitting—is exemplified by his dramatic two-run homer during the 2015 Wild Card Game—suggests he could thrive in Pittsburgh.
Should Schwarber join the Pirates, it could signal the end of Andrew McCutchen’s return, raising further speculation about the team’s direction.
Possible Trade and Free Agency Moves
If Schwarber remains unattainable, the Pirates could pursue other potential stars through trades or free agency. Notable targets include:
- Ketel Marte: 28 home runs, 72 RBIs, .893 OPS
- Jorge Polanco: 26 home runs, 78 RBIs, .821 OPS
- Eugenio Suarez: Slugging third baseman
- Munetaka Murakami: Japanese slugger
The approach to acquiring offensive talent raises questions about how much the Pirates are willing to compromise on defensive capabilities.
Future Player Development
The Pirates are also focused on their younger players, including Konnor Griffin. The organization aims to ensure Griffin succeeds as a prospective shortstop, balancing immediate needs with long-term development.
Rotating Pitching Staff
Pirates pitcher Mitch Keller remains a significant figure in trade discussions. Despite potential trade rumors, Keller’s affordable salary makes him a valuable asset for the rotation. Meanwhile, additions to the pitching staff may include a left-handed starter to complement the current roster.
Exploring New Talent
The Pirates recently claimed Marco Luciano off waivers from the San Francisco Giants. With a track record of power in the minors, Luciano has the potential to join the team as a fourth outfielder, offering an additional layer of competitiveness.
The upcoming offseason is pivotal for the Pirates as they look to reshape their team. With ambitious plans on the horizon, fans are watching closely to see how the front office navigates the challenges of free agency and trades.
