Pirates Seek Offensive Boost with Free Agent Targets O’Hearn and Suárez

The Pittsburgh Pirates are intensifying their efforts to bolster their offense this offseason by pursuing free agent hitters, although they have yet to secure any significant acquisitions. Despite reported substantial offers, including a four-year contract worth $125 million for Kyle Schwarber and over $78 million for Josh Naylor, the Pirates have seen these players opt for other teams.

MLB insider Jim Bowden discussed the Pirates’ challenges during a recent segment on Foul Territory. He emphasized the need for the franchise to consider overpaying for free agents due to their status as a small-market team and a lack of recent success on the field. Bowden pointed out that the Pirates possess a strong starting pitching rotation, and with the right offensive additions, they could become a competitive team.

Potential Additions for 2026

Among the players Bowden highlighted are designated hitter Ryan O’Hearn and third baseman Eugenio Suárez. O’Hearn, while not on par with a player like Schwarber, boasts a .437 slugging percentage and an .803 OPS, which surpasses any hitter currently on the Pirates’ roster. His versatility allows him to cover both corner outfield spots, first base, and designated hitter, positioning him as a valuable asset as the Pirates evaluate their lineup for the upcoming season.

The Pirates face uncertainty regarding their designated hitter position. Options include re-signing veteran Andrew McCutchen, shifting Bryan Reynolds to that role, or signing an external candidate. O’Hearn’s ability to hit left-handed pitchers, as evidenced by his .278/.358/.474 slash line against southpaws last season, adds depth to a lineup that needs it.

Addressing Power Shortfalls

Last season, the Pirates ranked last in Major League Baseball with only 117 home runs, underscoring their need for offensive firepower. Suárez, who has hit no fewer than 21 home runs in any season where he played over 100 games, could significantly improve the team’s power numbers. In fact, he has been one of the most productive home run hitters since 2018, with only five players hitting more home runs than him during that period.

In the 2023 season, Suárez recorded a line of .228/.298/.526 for an OPS of .824 across 159 games, including 49 home runs and 118 RBIs. His performance in the postseason with the Seattle Mariners, where they reached the American League Championship Series, showcased his potential impact on a team competing for playoff spots.

The Pirates’ offensive struggles were stark last season, with the lowest OPS of .655 and slugging percentage of .350 across the league. They also parted ways with Gold Glove Award winner Ke’Bryan Hayes ahead of the trade deadline, further complicating their infield dynamics.

Acquiring players like O’Hearn and Suárez could address the Pirates’ immediate needs for power and depth as they aim to improve their performance in the 2026 season. The franchise continues to look for strategic moves that will enhance their competitiveness and attract fans back to the ballpark in Pittsburgh.