The Pittsburgh Pirates aren’t wasting any time this offseason. After a few quiet years of rebuilding, their front office is backing up its promise to upgrade the roster-and the signing of left-handed reliever Gregory Soto is a clear signal they’re serious.
Soto, a two-time All-Star, agreed to a one-year, $7.75 million deal with the Pirates earlier this month. While his 2025 numbers weren’t his sharpest-he posted a 1-5 record with a 4.18 ERA, a single save, 70 strikeouts, and a 1.43 WHIP-there’s no question about what he brings to the table. He’s still one of the more dynamic lefty arms in the game, and his ability to handle high-leverage innings is exactly what Pittsburgh needs as it looks to take the next step.
Soto’s not just here to fill a roster spot. He’s coming in with a clear sense of purpose and a veteran mindset that could prove invaluable to a young Pirates clubhouse.
“What I saw in the Pirates was a group of young guys with a lot of talent and with the desire to win,” Soto said. “That’s something that I’ve built throughout the years. I’ve been in the league for a few years now and I want to come here and contribute to that.”
That mindset fits right into what the Pirates are building. This is a team with a core of emerging talent, and Soto’s experience and versatility could be a stabilizing force in a bullpen that’s had its share of ups and downs. He’s got 56 career saves under his belt, so don’t be surprised if he gets a shot at closing games, depending on how the rest of the bullpen shakes out.
Even if he doesn’t end up as the primary closer, Soto gives the Pirates a reliable late-inning option-something every contending team needs. He can handle the seventh, eighth, or ninth depending on matchups, and his presence alone should elevate the group around him.
The Pirates are clearly not done yet this offseason, but adding a proven arm like Soto is a strong move in the right direction. If this is just the beginning, it’s going to be worth watching what else Pittsburgh has up its sleeve as they gear up for 2026.