Pittsburgh Pirates showing commitment to building core

The Pittsburgh Pirates had been determined to sign Ke’Bryan Hayes to a long term extension. Although he had rebuffed their attempts during the 2020-21 offseason, he had left the door open, saying that he wanted to bring a championship to the team that drafted him. However, given the current state of the roster, that may take far longer than he could imagine.

On Thursday, the Pirates took a step towards actually making that happen. They were finally able to lock Hayes in to a long term deal, signing him to an eight year, $70 million contract, the largest deal in team history.

Pittsburgh Pirates show commitment with Ke’Bryan Hayes

Hayes is not without risk. He appeared to be an emerging star in his brief time in the majors in 2020 before struggling through an injury plagued 2021 campaign. His .257/.316/.373 batting line in his 396 plate appearances was a disappointment, as were his six homers and 20 doubles.

But it is also a matter of the future. Hayes is just 25 years old and is yet to enter his prime. He has been excellent defensively as well, having saved 20 runs at third base in just 119 games. His athleticism, potential, and bloodlines made him an intriguing prospect and someone that the Pirates could build around.

The team clearly feels the same way. Hayes will be locked in through his prime with this extension, keeping a key part of their future in place. With the likes of Oneil Cruz, Roasny Contreras, and Travis Swaggerty close to being major league ready, the beginning of a young core is on the way.

Locking in Hayes should be just the beginning. They have not had any luck with extending Bryan Reynolds, although he now has to be their priority. Perhaps locking Hayes in will be proof that the Pirates are really looking to build a sustainable contender.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have signed Ke’Bryan Hayes to a long term extension. It is a sign that they are actually looking to build a contender.