Pirates Star Brandon Lowe Opens Up About Free Agency

Pittsburgh Pirates star Brandon Lowe had a great 2026 season, but will now hit free agency. Lowe was a key trade acquisition for the Pirates before the season, and he became their best hitter.

The 32-year-old slashed .260/.331/.493 with 35 home runs, 29 doubles, 96 RBIs, 94 runs, and an .824 OPS. It was one of the best seasons of Lowe's career, and he is now one of the best hitters on the free-agent market.

Following the season, Lowe opened up about his time in Pittsburgh, stating he loved his time with the Pirates because the staff, his teammates, and the fans made him feel at home. 

Lowe went on to add that he is grateful for the organization and doesn't know what will happen this offseason, but he enjoyed his time with the franchise.

Pittsburgh's front office must prioritize re-signing Lowe, as he was their best hitter by far and helped them get closer to the playoffs. The Pirates finished with an 82-80 record and were only six games out of a Wild Card spot.

Losing their best hitter would be a step in the wrong direction for the roster, as they should be looking to re-sign Lowe while adding more firepower to the lineup. If the Pirates can get that done in the offseason, they will have a legitimate shot at reaching the postseason in 2027, which would end their 11-year playoff drought.

The Pirates will also be looking for some internal development with players like Konnor Griffin. Griffin had a solid rookie season for Pittsburgh, slashing .272/.324/.404 with six home runs, 15 doubles, four triples, 33 RBIs, and 43 runs.

He will be a key piece for the Pirates for the foreseeable future. If he can take a step next season, it would go a long way toward Pittsburgh improving their record in 2027.

The Pirates will also be hoping for a bounce-back year from Paul Skenes. Skenes put up solid numbers, posting a 3.82 ERA with 200 strikeouts, 48 walks, and a 1.119 WHIP, but it didn't live up to how he produced in his first two seasons in the MLB. If he returns to being a Cy Young candidate, it will help them make a push toward the postseason.

There could be a long offseason ahead, with a potential lockout as team owners and the MLBPA negotiate a new CBA. That could complicate things for all teams, including Pittsburgh, which should be looking to re-sign Lowe and bring in additional talent to the roster.