The Pittsburgh Pirates are making early noise this offseason, and the buzz around them isn’t just smoke-it’s the kind of chatter that suggests real movement could be coming. After another year of offensive inconsistency, the Pirates appear to be actively exploring ways to add impact bats to their lineup. And while nothing is imminent, the names being floated are telling.
One of the more intriguing possibilities? Jeff McNeil of the New York Mets.
McNeil, a two-time All-Star and former National League batting champ, has reportedly surfaced as a potential trade target for Pittsburgh. While his .253 average over the past three seasons doesn’t jump off the page, there’s more to the story. McNeil still brings value at the plate, posting a 111 wRC+ and 2.1 fWAR in 2025-both solid marks that suggest he’s more than capable of contributing in a meaningful way.
What’s changed in McNeil’s game is how he’s getting it done. He’s no longer the pure contact hitter who led the league in batting average in 2022, but he’s evolved.
Last season, he posted a career-high 10.6% walk rate while maintaining his usual low strikeout rate (11.9%). That’s a rare combo in today’s game, and it shows he’s adjusting his approach to stay productive.
He also flashed a bit more pop, notching a .168 ISO-his best since 2019.
McNeil turns 34 in April and is under contract for $15.75 million in 2026, with a club option for the same figure in 2027. That’s not exactly a bargain, but it’s not a bank-breaker either-especially for a team like the Pirates, who could use a steady veteran presence with positional flexibility. McNeil has experience at second base, the outfield, and even first base, depending on how the roster shakes out.
His future in New York is looking murky. The Mets recently acquired Marcus Semien from the Rangers in a blockbuster deal that sent longtime Met Brandon Nimmo to Texas.
With Semien locked in at second base, McNeil’s role is suddenly in flux. He could shift to the outfield or first base-particularly if Pete Alonso departs in free agency-but there’s also been some off-field friction that might accelerate his exit.
According to reports, McNeil had a heated verbal confrontation with Francisco Lindor this past June. That’s notable not just because of the personalities involved, but because it echoes a previous physical altercation between the two back in 2021. While these things happen in competitive clubhouses, it’s the kind of tension that can lead to change-especially when a team is already reshuffling its core.
For the Pirates, who had just two players-Spencer Horwitz and Joey Bart-post a wRC+ over 100 in 2025, adding a proven bat like McNeil could help raise the offensive floor. He’s not the slugger some fans might be clamoring for, but he’s a smart, versatile hitter who can lengthen a lineup and give you competitive at-bats night after night.
That said, Pittsburgh may still be eyeing more power-heavy options. They’ve reportedly shown interest in free-agent designated hitter Kyle Schwarber and catcher J.T.
Realmuto, though those pursuits are considered long shots. Schwarber’s left-handed pop would be a natural fit, and Realmuto’s all-around game would shore up both sides of the ball-but the price tags and market competition may keep the Pirates on the trade route instead.
If they do go that route, McNeil is the kind of player who fits what they’re trying to build: a veteran with playoff experience, positional versatility, and a bat that still has life. And if the Mets are indeed open to dealing him, Pittsburgh could have a real opportunity to buy low on a player who knows how to grind out quality at-bats.
The Pirates are clearly looking to upgrade their offense, and while the big splash might not come from the free-agent pool, a savvy trade could still make a major impact. Whether it’s McNeil or someone else, this is shaping up to be a pivotal offseason in Pittsburgh.