The Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly trying to be big players in the free agent market, a sharp departure from the 18 offseasons in which Bob Nutting has been the principal owner.
The Pirates haven't signed a free agent to a multi-year contract since inking Ivan Nova to a two-year, $26-million deal in 2016. The largest outlay the Pirates have ever made was the three-year, $39-million contract given to left-hander Francisco Liriano in 2014.
With that as context, it is surprising that the Pirates are trying to sign designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, who led the National League with 56 home runs and 132 RBIs this year for the Philadelphia Phillies. Schwarber would significantly bolster a Pirates' lineup that finished last in MLB in runs scored, home runs, and RBIs last season.
Schwarber's home run total was more than half the Pirates' total, and his left-handed swing is perfect for PNC Park. It is easy to envision Schwarber hitting balls into the Allegheny River. Schwarber is also willing to draw walks, as he led the NL in that category with 106 in 2024, then had 108 this past season.
Schwarber takes criticism for having a career batting average of .231 over 11 seasons. However, he offsets the low average with a .346 on-base percentage and an .846 OPS. He had a .928 OPS this season and a 150 OPS+
Schwarber would also be a good influence in a clubhouse that doesn't always seem cohesive, though that did improve somewhat after Don Kelly replaced Derek Shelton as manager on May 8. Teammates universally love Schwarber for his easygoing nature, sense of humor, and toughness. From a baseball writer's standpoint, I can attest that he is a smart guy who gives thoughtful answers.
Defense is a problem, as Schwarber has played 13 games in the outfield over the last two seasons combined. Designated hitter/franchise icon Andrew McCutchen, who is a free agent after three seasons in his second stint with the Pirates, also isn't able to play the outfield consistently.
On the surface, a platoon of the lefty-swinging Schwarber and right-handed hitting McCutchen makes sense. Yet Schwarber crushes left-handed pitching, hitting 23 home runs in 276 plate appearances with a .964.
So, Schwarber, even though he will be 33 on opening day next season, makes perfect sense for the Pirates, except for two reasons. One is that Phillies owner John Middleton has repeatedly said he will do what it takes to keep Schwarber. Two is, even if the Pirates are in spending mode --- I'm skeptical until they prove otherwise -- they still aren't going to be able to afford Schwarber.
Schwarber should command a contract in the range of five years and $115 million. I can't imagine Nutting signing off on a deal like that.