The Pittsburgh Pirates are actively pursuing a significant addition to their lineup by targeting free agent Kyle Schwarber. This offseason, the team aims to bolster its offensive power after a disappointing 2025 season.
Pirates Targeting Kyle Schwarber
Jon Heyman reported that the Pirates remain committed to acquiring Schwarber. Other teams in the competition include the Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, Cincinnati Reds, and Philadelphia Phillies. The Reds are particularly interested in Schwarber, given his roots in Middletown, Ohio, located approximately 40 miles from Cincinnati.
Schwarber’s Impressive Track Record
Kyle Schwarber stands out as one of baseball’s top home run hitters. Over the last nine seasons, he has averaged more than 25 home runs annually, with several seasons exceeding 30 homers. His remarkable stats include:
- 2017: 30 home runs
- 2018: 26 home runs
- 2019: 38 home runs
- 2020: 11 home runs
- 2021: 32 home runs
- 2022: 46 home runs
- 2023: 47 home runs
- 2024: 38 home runs
- 2025: 56 home runs
In 2025, Schwarber delivered a standout performance, posting a .240 batting average with an OPS of .928 and leading the National League with 56 home runs. He was a finalist for the NL MVP, finishing second to Shohei Ohtani, and earned a spot in the All-Star Game.
Why the Pirates Need Schwarber
The Pirates finished the 2025 season with a league-low 117 home runs. They also recorded the lowest slugging percentage (.350) and OPS (.655), along with the fewest runs scored (583) and RBIs (561). Adding Schwarber would address their pressing need for a home run hitter.
As a left-handed batter, Schwarber fits the Pirates’ strategic focus this offseason, given the advantages left-handed hitters typically have at PNC Park. The team currently lacks a designated hitter, especially with uncertainty surrounding veteran Andrew McCutchen’s future.
Potential Contract for Schwarber
Schwarber’s market value is estimated to be around four years and $100 million, with some analysts suggesting it could rise to $128 million for the same duration. The Pirates have historically been cautious in free agency, with their last major multi-year signing occurring in 2016. They currently rank among the lowest in MLB for Opening Day payroll.
Despite these constraints, General Manager Ben Cherington indicated the team has more flexibility this year. Team President Travis Williams echoed this sentiment, stating they are equipped to compete for a postseason spot. Signing Schwarber would significantly surpass the franchise’s previous record free-agent signing and represent a bold maneuver against larger market teams.
While the pursuit of Schwarber appears challenging, the Pirates are intent on making a serious effort to enhance their roster. For ongoing updates on the team’s activities, stay tuned to El-Balad.
