As the Pittsburgh Pirates gear up for the 2025 season, they are likely to continue their trend of extending young talent, a practice that has proven fruitful in recent springs. One pivotal player in this conversation is Oneil Cruz, who, after a solid 2024 season batting .259 with 21 home runs and 22 stolen bases, is expected to be a key candidate for an extension. In contrast, pitcher Paul Skenes, despite being the reigning NL Rookie of the Year, is unlikely to receive an extension while under team control for five more seasons. On the flip side, Cruz’s recent transition to center field raises questions about his long-term value, especially after he posted negative defensive metrics in the position.

Pittsburgh's approach to retaining its homegrown talent has been demonstrated through substantial contract extensions for players like Ke'Bryan Hayes and Bryan Reynolds. With their first full-squad workout on the horizon, the Pirates' front office is poised to engage in discussions surrounding Cruz's future as they aim to solidify a promising roster. The team's willingness to invest in its young stars suggests they recognize the importance of keeping their core intact to foster sustained competitiveness.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have faced criticism for their lack of spending in the offseason, with their last multi-year free agent signing dating back to 2016 when they acquired starting pitcher Iván Nova. This long gap underscores a broader trend among MLB teams, as the Pirates stand alone in refraining from signing free agents to multi-year contracts in recent years.

Owner Bob Nutting's reluctance to sell the team and GM Ben Cherington's limited external acquisitions since 2019 have left many fans frustrated. Despite extending key players like Ke'Bryan Hayes and Bryan Reynolds, the lack of investment in free agency raises questions about the future of emerging talents like Oneil Cruz and Paul Skenes, potentially hindering the Pirates' prospects.

Tommy Pham, the seasoned outfielder, has signed a one-year contract worth $4,025,000 with the Pittsburgh Pirates, marking his 10th Major League team. At 37, Pham's experience is critical for a Pirates squad that has been relatively quiet this offseason, aside from re-signing Andrew McCutchen and trading for Spencer Horwitz. With Pham joining Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh's outfield looks to gain depth and versatility.

Last season, Pham played for the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago White Sox, and Kansas City Royals, posting a .248 batting average with 20 doubles, 9 home runs, and 39 RBIs. His extensive career has spanned several teams, providing him with unique insights and adaptability that the Pirates will aim to leverage in their pursuit of success.

Tommy Pham has signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates valued at $4,025,000. This makes it his 10th Major League team in an 11-year career, where he has played for multiple franchises. Pham, who batted .248 last season, joins the Pirates during a quiet offseason for the team that also recently re-signed Andrew McCutchen and brought in Spencer Horwitz. This acquisition enhances Pittsburgh's outfield options alongside Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz.

The Pittsburgh Pirates' farm system has seen a dip in ESPN's rankings, now sitting at 20th after previously being 14th. This change is largely attributed to the departure of Paul Skenes, who made an impact in the big leagues last season. Despite this setback, the Pirates still possess top prospects like Bubba Chandler, who could potentially become a star alongside the likes of Skenes and Oneil Cruz. ESPN's Kiley McDaniel notes that the emergence of Skenes has altered the outlook for the entire organization.

The rankings placed the Pirates behind teams like the Milwaukee Brewers, Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, and St. Louis Cardinals. Notably, the Pirates featured four players in ESPN's top 100 prospects, including Chandler, Termarr Johnson, Konnor Griffin, and Braxton Ashcraft. The need for these prospects to contribute at the major league level is imperative for the Pirates, who are aiming to break a playoff drought that has lasted since 2015.