The Pittsburgh Pirates have extended star player Bryan Reynolds to an 8-year deal. The news came from baseball insider Jeff Passan. This extension will be the largest contract in the teams’ history.
“Outfielder Bryan Reynolds and the Pittsburgh Pirates are in agreement on an eight-year, $106.75 million contract that includes a club option and does not have an opt out, sources confirm to ESPN. Amid the Pirates’ great start, they give out the largest contract in team history.”
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) April 25, 2023
Pirates in 2023
The 2023 Pittsburgh Pirates have been off to a hot start. They are currently 16-7 and leading the National League Central. Much of Pittsburgh’s early success can be credited to Bryan Reynolds, who has been off to a phenomenal start. In 22 games this season he is hitting .294/.319/.553 with five home runs and 18 RBI. In addition to Reynolds, Ke’Bryan Hayes and Andrew McCutchen have been stellar as the Pirates core begins to form. With a good group of young players, the Pirates are trying to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2015.
The Extension
Throughout the off-season, there were rumors about Brian Reynolds being unhappy in Pittsburgh. With the young star still three years away from free agency, the Pirates did not have to give out an extension. Ultimately, they have recognized that this is a player they wish to keep around for the long term. Reynolds played at Vanderbilt and was a second-round pick of the San Francisco Giants in 2016. However, the outfielder was traded as a prospect in 2018 for Andrew McCutchen.
This could be the start of the next wave of Pirates players. In four seasons with Pittsburgh, Bryan Reynolds has become a fan favorite like Andrew McCutchen. He is an all-star-level talent and may be for years to come. In addition, the Pirates’ payroll increased by $21 million from 2022, and if the team improves, payroll will likely increase even more. The deal is $106.75 million for eight years, allowing for a club option after the 2030 season.
Photo Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
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