"On some level, that seems to reflect the front office's belief in the team as a potential short-term competitor, even in spite of its major flaws. GM Ben Cherington told reporters just recently that he believes the team can contend in 2026, so it stands to reason that a player like might not be on the market at this point, even if there were reasons to believe a team could've pried him away a few months ago."
"In that same conversation with reporters, Cherington acknowledged that upgrading the offense on the trade market was on the table for the Pirates heading into this winter. While Pittsburgh has one of the richest farm systems in the majors from which they could deal if so inclined, an organization that regularly runs some of the lowest payrolls in MLB may not want to part with packages rich with prospect capital."
Multiple controllable players were widely rumored to be traded but remained with Pittsburgh, including Mitch Keller, Bryan Reynolds, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, and Andrew Heaney. The Yankees, Red Sox, Blue Jays, Mets, and Cubs were linked to Keller, yet no deal materialized by August 1. GM Ben Cherington expressed belief the team can contend in 2026. Cherington also said upgrading the offense via trades is a possibility this winter. Pittsburgh has one of baseball's deepest farm systems but typically runs a low payroll and may be reluctant to trade premium prospects, making trades for major-league hitters an attractive alternative. Keller performed well early in 2025 but regressed after the All-Star break.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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