The Pittsburgh Pirates are making strategic moves to enhance their competitiveness for the upcoming seasons, announcing a two-year, $29 million contract with All-Star first baseman/outfielder Ryan O’Hearn, according to sources familiar with the agreement. This marks the first multi-year free agent signing by the Pirates since 2016, underscoring their commitment to improving one of the poorest offensive lineups in Major League Baseball.
Ryan O’Hearn, 32, enjoyed a breakout season in 2025, earning his first All-Star selection while achieving career-best statistics including a .281 batting average, 17 home runs, and a 3.0 WAR (Wins Above Replacement). Known for his consistent on-base skills over raw power, O’Hearn particularly excelled against left-handed pitchers last season, posting a hitting line of .278/.358/.474 in 109 plate appearances.
This signing adds to a busy offseason for the Pirates, who recently executed a significant three-team trade acquiring second baseman Brandon Lowe, outfielder Jake Mangum, and left-handed pitcher Mason Montgomery. Additionally, they have traded for Boston Red Sox outfield prospect Jhostynxon Garcia, who showcased his potential with 18 home runs in Triple-A, and signed reliever Gregory Soto. These acquisitions aim to fortify their lineup, which will work in tandem with an already strong pitching rotation led by reigning National League Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes and promising rookie Bubba Chandler.
Last season, the Pirates concluded with a disappointing 71-91 record, largely attributed to an underperforming offense that ranked near the bottom in several key metrics, including runs and home runs. O’Hearn, who collected 64 RBIs while splitting time between the Orioles and Padres last season, brings versatility to the Pirates’ roster. Although the team currently features left-handed hitter Spencer Horwitz at first base, O’Hearn can also contribute in the outfield alongside talents like Oneil Cruz and two-time All-Star Bryan Reynolds.
Over eight MLB seasons, primarily spent with the Kansas City Royals, O’Hearn holds a career batting average of .252. However, his recent performance trends are promising, as he has hit .277 with 46 home runs and 182 RBIs since the start of 2023. Playing in a ballpark where the left-field wall is just 320 feet from home plate could further enhance his offensive output.
With these significant additions, the Pirates are clearly positioning themselves for a competitive run, aiming to eclipse past struggles and build a stronger, more dynamic team. The coming seasons hold great promise for fans eager for a return to contention.