The Pittsburgh Pirates have made a significant splash in the free agent market, agreeing to a two-year, $29 million contract with first baseman Ryan O'Hearn, according to sources close to the deal. This move marks the latest in a flurry of offseason activity for the Pirates, who are clearly committed to bolstering their lineup and supporting a promising young pitching staff.
O'Hearn, 32, is coming off a breakout season in 2025, during which he earned his first All-Star selection and set career highs in batting average (.281), home runs (17), and Wins Above Replacement (3.0 WAR). While he may not possess massive raw power, O'Hearn has established himself as a steady on-base threat, making him an attractive addition to the Pirates' lineup. Notably, he played more regularly against left-handed pitchers last season, posting a.278/.358/.474 slash line in 109 plate appearances.
The agreement with O'Hearn is just the latest in a series of moves made by the Pirates this winter. Last week, the team acquired second baseman Brandon Lowe, outfielder Jake Mangum, and left-handed pitcher Mason Montgomery as part of a three-team trade. Additionally, the Pirates have traded for Red Sox outfield prospect Jhostynxon Garcia, who hit 18 home runs in Triple-A, and signed reliever Gregory Soto. These moves demonstrate the team's commitment to addressing its offensive shortcomings, which were evident last season when the Pirates ranked near the bottom of the majors in runs and home runs.
O'Hearn's Career Statistics are a testament to his consistency and potential for growth. In eight MLB seasons, including a five-year stint with the Kansas City Royals, he has compiled a.252 batting average, 84 home runs, and 313 RBIs. Last season, he drove in 63 runs while playing for the Baltimore Orioles and San Diego Padres. With the Pirates, O'Hearn will be expected to provide a similar level of production, helping to anchor the lineup and support the team's young pitching staff, led by National League Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes.
According to sources, the Pirates' front office is thrilled to have O'Hearn on board, citing his ability to get on base and create scoring opportunities as a key factor in the team's decision to sign him. With O'Hearn in the fold, the Pirates are hoping to improve their overall offense and make a push for the playoffs in the competitive National League.
The Pirates' offseason activity has been fast and furious, with the team addressing multiple areas of need in a short span. Some of the key moves made by the team include:
As the Pirates continue to shape their roster for the upcoming season, it's clear that the team is committed to making a serious push for the playoffs. With O'Hearn on board and a promising young pitching staff leading the way, the Pirates are poised to make some noise in the National League. According to ESPN's Kiley McDaniel and The Associated Press, the team's front office is confident that the moves made this offseason will pay dividends in the long run, setting the stage for a successful season in Pittsburgh.
Original: ESPN
Image: ESPN
Written by Npsports
