Pirates’ Free Agency Misstep: The Case of Josh Naylor
The Pittsburgh Pirates are on a quest to enhance their lineup as they prepare for the 2026 season. As part of this effort, the organization appears to have set its sights on hitters who can significantly improve their offensive capabilities. However, a recent revelation has exposed a surprising blunder in their free agency approach regarding first baseman Josh Naylor.
The Record Offer That Never Was
In mid-November, ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported that the Pirates extended a remarkable offer to Naylor—one that would have doubled their previous record for a free agent signing. The benchmark was set by left-handed pitcher Francisco Liriano, who inked a three-year, $39 million contract back in December 2014. If Passan’s report had been accurate, the Pirates would have offered Naylor an astounding $78 million or more.
However, the narrative quickly shifted when Ken Rosenthal and Evan Drellich of The Athletic provided clarity on the situation. They reported that, contrary to earlier claims, the Pirates never actually made an offer to Naylor. Instead, the Seattle Mariners swooped in and secured the first baseman’s services with a five-year, $92 million contract—averaging $18.5 million per year—before the Pirates could engage in serious discussions.
The Rapid Turnaround
According to Rosenthal and Drellich, the deal for Naylor was finalized just weeks after the conclusion of the World Series, highlighting the swift nature of the Mariners’ negotiations. “The Pirates never actually made an offer to Naylor, according to people briefed on the discussions,” they noted. The urgency of the Mariners to lock down Naylor left the Pirates on the sidelines, unable to capitalize on what could have been a transformative addition to their roster.
Assessing the Pirates’ Offense
The Pirates, who struggled offensively last season, are keenly aware of their need for improvement. With one of the weakest offenses in Major League Baseball, the addition of a player like Naylor could have represented a significant step forward in their quest for competitiveness. His track record and potential for impact were surely appealing as the Pirates sought to revamp their lineup.
Yet, the organization’s failure to follow through on a reported offer raises questions about their strategy and execution in free agency. As the Pirates continue to navigate the offseason, fans will be left wondering how this blunder might affect their long-term plans for a more competitive team.
