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As the Pittsburgh Pirates look ahead to the 2026-27 MLB offseason, the front office faces several important choices in its effort to build on recent progress and field a more competitive roster next season.
Three players from the 2026 club are set to become free agents: second baseman Brandon Lowe, left-handed reliever Gregory Soto, and right-handed pitcher Kirby Yates. Lowe and Soto are eligible to test the open market after their contracts expired, while Yates has retired following the conclusion of the regular season.
Brandon Lowe
Brandon Lowe stands out as one of the most prominent names among Pittsburgh's impending free agents after delivering an immediate impact in his first season with the Pirates. Acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays in an offseason trade, Lowe appeared in 150 games in 2026, batting .260 with 35 home runs, 96 RBIs, and an .824 OPS. He also solidified his defensive reputation at second base, earning recognition as a National League Gold Glove finalist. Having played out the final year of his contract, Lowe is now eligible for free agency, leaving the Pirates to decide whether to pursue a reunion with one of their most productive hitters.
Gregory Soto
Gregory Soto joined Pittsburgh on a one-year, $7.75 million contract in December 2025, providing the Pirates with an experienced left-handed option out of the bullpen. The 31-year-old appeared in 69 games, posting a 6-5 record with a 3.63 ERA over 67 innings. He also recorded 79 strikeouts and converted 16 of 22 save opportunities. With his contract now expired, Soto becomes a free agent, and Pittsburgh must determine whether to bring the reliever back or seek bullpen help elsewhere.
Kirby Yates (Retired)
Kirby Yates appears on the MLBPA's 2026 free-agent list due to his expired contract, but the veteran reliever announced his retirement earlier this year. The Pirates acquired Yates from the Los Angeles Angels ahead of the trade deadline, and he appeared in 15 games with Pittsburgh, recording a 2-0 record and a 1.80 ERA across 15 innings. Between both teams, he finished with a 3.19 ERA and 49 strikeouts in 42 1/3 innings. Yates wrapped up his 12-year MLB career with 518 appearances, 101 saves, and a 3.35 ERA. He was a two-time All-Star and led the majors with 41 saves in 2019.
Key Analysis
The Pirates' offseason strategy will hinge on how they value Lowe's offensive production and Soto's bullpen reliability against the cost of retaining them. With Yates retiring, Pittsburgh also loses a veteran presence but gains flexibility in reshaping its pitching staff. The decisions made this winter will signal whether the club believes its recent progress is sustainable or requires external reinforcements.
Originally reported by yahoo.