Pirates Could Target Defensive Third Baseman in Free Agency

The Pittsburgh Pirates have a big offseason ahead as they look to upgrade the roster to become a playoff team in the 2027 season.

The Pirates had a solid 2026 campaign, with an 82-80 record, but they have an 11-year playoff drought. Pittsburgh will need to improve their roster this offseason if they want to take the jump and become a playoff team.

Philadelphia Phillies infielder Edmundo Sosa could be a player for the Pirates to target. In the 2026 season, Sosa slashed .247/.283/.429 with nine home runs, 11 doubles, 44 RBIs, 31 runs, and a .712 OPS across 84 games. 

He has played many different positions during his career, including left field, third base, second base, and shortstop at times in 2026. The Pirates don't have a solidified option at third base, which is why Sosa could be a contender to start for them. However, if he doesn't earn the starting spot, he would still be a valuable addition, as he could play different positions.

In his eight-year career, Sosa has slashed .256/.306/.417 with 45 home runs, 69 doubles, 17 triples, 192 RBIs, 202 runs, and a .724 OPS. The 30-year-old should be among the players Pittsburgh targets in free agency.

The Pirates will need to make some additional moves this offseason to have a chance of making it into the playoffs. Pittsburgh has some talented pieces, with Paul Skenes as their star starter. Across three seasons, Skenes is a three-time All-Star, a Cy Young Award winner, and a Rookie of the Year, posting a 2.62 ERA with 586 strikeouts, 123 walks, and a 1.008 WHIP.

The Pirates also have some talented pieces in the lineup, including Konnor Griffin. Griffin had a strong rookie season, slashing .272/.324/.404 with six home runs, 15 doubles, four triples, 23 stolen bases, 33 RBIs, 43 runs, and a .728 OPS.

The 20-year-old shortstop has a ton of potential, and he could take his game to the next level in 2027. Although Griffin could play at a high level, they will need more in their lineup.

Retaining Brandon Lowe should be among the top of their priorities, as he had a great 2026 season with Pittsburgh, slashing .260/.331/.493 with 35 home runs, 29 doubles, 96 RBIs, 94 runs, and an .824 OPS.

If Pittsburgh gets some internal development from Griffin, can re-sign Lowe, and add players like Sosa, their lineup will be better and give them a shot at getting into the postseason.