The Pittsburgh Pirates have made minimal moves this offseason, with the most significant being the acquisition of first baseman Spencer Horwitz. However, a potential game-changer could be on the horizon with Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki entering the free-agent market. Posted by the Chiba Lotte Marines, Sasaki has garnered interest from multiple teams, including the Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, New York Yankees, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, and Texas Rangers.

Although the Pirates typically struggle in bidding wars against larger markets, Sasaki's status as an international free agent means they have a fighting chance, bolstered by their high international bonus pool. His agent indicates that the decision will heavily depend on a team's commitment to player development. The Pirates boast a formidable pitching development program, highlighted by recent successes like National League Rookie of the Year Paul Skenes.