Pirates Poised for Change This Offseason
The Pittsburgh Pirates have long been characterized by their frugality in the offseason, but a shift in strategy appears to be on the horizon for the franchise. Recent insights from MLB executives suggest that the Pirates might be ready to shake things up with significant spending this winter.
Executives Predict a Busy Offseason
In a recent survey conducted by ESPN’s Jesse Rogers, MLB executives were asked which small-market team would make the most noise during the upcoming offseason. The Pirates emerged as the clear frontrunner, garnering five votes. The Cincinnati Reds, Kansas City Royals, and Miami Marlins each received three votes, while the Tampa Bay Rays secured two.
One executive emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “The Pirates better pair a good hitter or two with [Paul] Skenes or else we all know what happens. There’s been enough chatter. I vote for them.” This sentiment echoes a growing belief that the Pirates need to bolster their lineup to complement their promising pitching staff.
A History of Hesitance in Spending
Historically, the Pirates have not been known for hefty offseason investments. Their record free-agent signing came in December 2014, when they re-signed left-handed pitcher Francisco Liriano for three years at $39 million. Since then, the team’s activity in the free-agent market has been minimal. They have not signed a multi-year deal since right-handed pitcher Iván Nova in December 2016, and their last multi-year signing for a position player was outfielder John Jaso in December 2015.
Under the ownership of Bob Nutting, who has led the team since 2007, the Pirates have consistently ranked among the bottom five in MLB for Opening Day payroll, according to Cot’s Contracts. They only strayed from this trend in 2015, 2016, and 2017, when their payrolls briefly crept above the league’s lowest tiers.
A New Era on the Horizon?
Despite their historical reluctance to spend, indications from the Pirates’ front office suggest a newfound willingness to invest. At recent general manager meetings in Las Vegas, the team’s general manager hinted at increased “flexibility” and a more “aggressive” approach this offseason.
Rumors are swirling about potential targets, including National League MVP finalist Kyle Schwarber, who smashed 56 home runs last season. Other players of interest reportedly include San Diego Padres designated hitter Ryan O’Hearn, Seattle Mariners second baseman Jorge Polanco, and Japanese superstars Kazuma Okamoto and Munetaka Murakami. Additionally, the Pirates are eyeing left-handed hitters from the Cardinals such as Alec Burleson, Brendan Donovan, Lars Nootbaar, and Nolan Gorman for possible trades.
Strengthening the Pitching Staff
Pittsburgh’s pitching staff remains a cornerstone of their potential success. The rotation is anchored by NL Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes, alongside veterans Mitch Keller and Johan Oviedo, and a promising group of rookies including Braxton Ashcraft, Hunter Barco, Mike Burrows, and Bubba Chandler.
With a solid foundation on the mound and the prospect of strategic enhancements to their batting lineup, the Pirates could be gearing up for a transformative offseason. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if the team will follow through on this newfound ambition.
