Overview
- Reports on Saturday say Lowe told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette the Pirates have not formally approached him about an extension but he is “all ears” to talks.
- If no multiyear deal is reached before free agency the Pirates are expected to extend a one-year $23.1 million qualifying offer that would net a pick after the first round if Lowe signs elsewhere.
- Lowe delivered a career-best 2026 at the plate with 32 home runs and strong offensive metrics, and he produced a dramatic defensive turnaround after poor marks in 2025.
- Analysts project Lowe could command a short-term, mid-market free-agent deal roughly in the three-year, $20 million per season range, though his age and possible CBA uncertainty add risk.
- The club acquired Lowe in last winter’s three-team trade that also brought Mason Montgomery and Jake Mangum to Pittsburgh, and keeping him would bolster a roster the manager says has a bright future.