The Pittsburgh Pirates are making moves that signal a franchise ready to turn the corner - and they're putting their money where their mouth is.
Ryan O’Hearn’s Deal Shows Pirates Are Serious About Competing
The Pirates’ offseason investment in Ryan O’Hearn is now fully on the books, and the numbers tell a story of belief - both in O’Hearn’s potential and in Pittsburgh’s intent to build a legitimate everyday lineup.
O’Hearn’s two-year deal is worth $29 million guaranteed, with $14 million set for 2026 and $15 million for 2027. But the structure goes deeper than just base salary. Built-in performance incentives offer O’Hearn the chance to earn significantly more if he delivers at the plate and racks up accolades.
He can collect bonuses ranging from $100,000 to $150,000 based on plate appearances - starting at 450 and going up to 525. That’s a clear signal the Pirates expect him to be a regular presence in the lineup, not just a platoon bat or depth piece.
The award incentives are where things get even more interesting: $250,000 for an NL MVP nod, $150,000 for a second-place finish, and $100,000 for third. He could also earn $50,000 for World Series MVP, $25,000 for postseason series MVPs, $75,000 for a Silver Slugger, $25,000 for a Gold Glove, and $50,000 for an All-Star selection.
That’s not just a payday - that’s a bet. A bet that O’Hearn can be more than a solid contributor.
A bet that he can help anchor a Pirates lineup that’s starting to take shape with purpose. And if he hits the upper tier of those incentives, it likely means Pittsburgh is playing meaningful baseball into October - something fans have been waiting a long time to see.
Paul Skenes Gets the Topps Treatment - With a Legendary Twist
If there was any doubt about how quickly Paul Skenes has ascended the ranks of baseball’s elite, Topps just erased it.
The reigning NL Cy Young winner is set to appear alongside Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan on a dual autographed card - a first-of-its-kind pairing that drops February 6 as part of the 2026 Topps Museum Collection.
That’s not just a cool collectible - it’s a statement. Museum Collection is one of Topps’ most premium lines, known for its high-end design, autographs, and game-used memorabilia. And now, it’ll feature a card that bridges generations: Ryan, the all-time strikeout king and no-hitter machine, and Skenes, the Pirates’ ace who’s already making history just two seasons into his MLB career.
For Skenes, this kind of recognition isn’t just about hype - it’s about results. He’s already earned his place among the game’s top arms, and now, he’s being showcased alongside one of the greatest to ever toe the rubber. It’s a glimpse into the kind of legacy Skenes is chasing - and the kind of company he’s already keeping.
Edward Florentino Named Baseball’s Top Corner Outfield Prospect
The Pirates’ pipeline continues to shine, and Edward Florentino is the latest name to grab the national spotlight.
Baseball America just named the 19-year-old the top corner outfield prospect in the game heading into 2026. That’s no small feat - and it’s backed up by both the tools and the production.
Florentino earned a 65 overall grade from BA, the highest at his position. His bat is the real draw: he received 60 grades for both hitting and power, showing off a rare combination of contact ability and pop.
His arm was graded a 55, while fielding (45) and speed (40) still have room to grow. He’s also labeled a “high-risk” prospect, which is typical for a teenager with limited pro experience - but the upside is undeniable.
After arriving stateside in 2025, Florentino didn’t waste any time making an impression. He slashed a jaw-dropping .347/.442/.642 in the Florida Complex League, then held his own after a promotion to Single-A Bradenton with a .262/.380/.503 line, 10 homers, and 29 stolen bases. He even took home Florida State League Player of the Month honors in July after leading the league in home runs and RBIs.
What makes Florentino so exciting is that he’s not just a tools guy - he’s producing, and doing it at a young age against older competition. He’s expected to begin 2026 with High-A Greensboro, but if the bat keeps playing, a midseason jump to Double-A Altoona could be in the cards.
The Pirates have been steadily building one of the more intriguing farm systems in baseball. With Skenes already starring in the bigs and Florentino rising fast, the future in Pittsburgh is starting to feel a lot closer than it used to.