Veteran Slugger Ryan O'Hearn Signs with Pirates

Two-year, $29 million deal makes O'Hearn highest-paid free agent hitter in Pirates history

Mar. 3, 2026 at 3:31am

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Veteran MLB player Ryan O'Hearn has signed a two-year, $29 million contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates, making him the highest-paid free agent hitter in the team's history. O'Hearn, who is coming off an All-Star season with the Baltimore Orioles and San Diego Padres, says Pittsburgh was the "perfect fit" for him and his family despite receiving several other offers in free agency.

Why it matters

The Pirates are hoping O'Hearn's bat can help improve their offense after finishing near the bottom of the league in several key offensive categories last season. His versatility to play both first base and the outfield will also give the team flexibility in their lineup.

The details

O'Hearn, 32, is coming off a 2025 season where he hit .281 with a .366 OBP, 17 home runs, and 63 RBIs. He earned his first career All-Star selection that year. The Pirates are banking on O'Hearn continuing that production to help them compete in the NL Central.

  • O'Hearn signed his two-year, $29 million contract with the Pirates in free agency this offseason.
  • The Pirates will open the 2026 MLB season against the New York Mets on Opening Day.

The players

Ryan O'Hearn

A 32-year-old veteran MLB player who has played first base and the outfield, and is coming off an All-Star season with the Baltimore Orioles and San Diego Padres.

Pittsburgh Pirates

A Major League Baseball team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that competes in the National League Central division.

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What they’re saying

“Going into free agency, I didn't know really what to expect. I heard from a lot of teams. And then as the winter kind of went on, you start to get your offers, and you look at the team and the city and the situation... Pittsburgh checked a lot of boxes for my wife and I... It made a lot of sense.”

— Ryan O'Hearn

What’s next

The Pirates will be looking for O'Hearn to provide a consistent offensive presence in their lineup when the 2026 MLB season begins on Opening Day against the New York Mets.

The takeaway

The Pirates' signing of veteran slugger Ryan O'Hearn to a lucrative two-year deal shows their commitment to improving their offense and competing in the NL Central. O'Hearn's All-Star caliber production and versatility make him an intriguing addition for a Pirates team looking to end their postseason drought.