Pirates Expected to Make Major Splash This Offseason

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates aren't known for their offseason moves, but those in MLB front offices see a change in their approach this winter.

MLB Executives See Pirates as Big Spenders This Offseason

Jesse Rogers of ESPN spoke with MLB executives in a survey, where they predicted different trades and what will happen in free agency.

He asked them which small-market team will make the most noise this offseason and the Pirates received the most votes with five. The Cincinnati Reds, Kansas City Royals and Miami Marlins each received three votes and the Tampa Bay Rays received two.

"The Pirates better pair a good hitter or two with [Paul] Skenes or else we all know what happens," one executive said to Rogers. "There's been enough chatter. I vote for them."

Pirates Historical Lack of Offseason Spending

This result from Rogers' survey is interesting, as the Pirates don't have a history of spending much money.

Pittsburgh's record free agent deal was re-signing left-handed starting pitcher Francisco Liriano for three years, $39 million on Dec. 9, 2014.

The Pirates also haven't signed a free agent to a multi-year deal since right-handed starting pitcher Iván Nova for three years, $26 million on Dec. 27, 2016. Their last free agent position player they signed to a multi-year was outfielder John Jaso for two years, $8 million on Dec. 23, 2015.

Bob Nutting has served as the primary owner of the team since 2007 and the Pirates have ranked in the bottom five MLB teams for Opening Day payroll for 16 of those 19 seasons, according to Cot's Contracts.