Pirates Must Sign Veteran Slugger Eugenio Suarez

Suarez would provide much-needed power to Pittsburgh's lineup.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 3:55pm

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The Pittsburgh Pirates were unable to sign their top free agent target, third baseman Kazuma Okamoto, who signed with the Toronto Blue Jays. However, the Pirates have an opportunity to add another proven power hitter in Eugenio Suarez, who would immediately become one of the biggest bats in their lineup.

Why it matters

The Pirates ranked last in MLB in runs scored in 2025, so adding a slugger like Suarez, who hit 49 home runs and drove in 118 runs last season, would be a major boost to their offense. His presence could also delay the arrival of top prospect Konnor Griffin, allowing the team to bring him up when he's fully ready.

The details

Suarez, a 12-year MLB veteran, split the 2025 season between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Seattle Mariners, making his second career All-Star team after hitting .228 with 49 home runs and 118 RBIs. Currently, Jared Triolo is penciled in as the Pirates' starting third baseman, but Suarez would provide a more proven power option at the hot corner.

  • Suarez is currently a free agent and available to sign with any team.

The players

Eugenio Suarez

A 12-year MLB veteran third baseman who hit 49 home runs and drove in 118 runs in 2025, split between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Seattle Mariners.

Jared Triolo

The Pirates' current starting third baseman, who has spent three years with the team and won a Gold Glove in 2024.

Konnor Griffin

A top Pirates prospect who is 19 years old and could have his arrival to the major leagues delayed if the team signs Suarez.

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What’s next

The Pirates will need to negotiate a contract with Eugenio Suarez before the start of spring training in order to add him to their 2026 roster.

The takeaway

Signing Eugenio Suarez would provide the Pirates with a much-needed power bat in their lineup as they look to improve on a 2025 season in which they ranked last in MLB in runs scored. His presence could also allow the team to bring along top prospect Konnor Griffin at a more gradual pace.