dailyloe.com – The Pittsburgh Pirates are faced with uncertainty regarding Brandon Lowe’s future with the team beyond this season.
Lowe is concluding a six-year, $24 million contract from March 20, 2019, which included two club options. Currently, he is on the second option for $11.5 million.
As he approaches his 32nd birthday in July, this pivotal year is crucial for Lowe, who is aiming for his last significant contract.
The Pirates must decide how to approach contract negotiations with Lowe this offseason based on their valuation of him. They could extend him a qualifying offer that would be a one-year deal worth $22.025 million for 2026.
If the Pirates do not re-sign Lowe and make the qualifying offer, they would receive a compensatory draft pick in 2027. However, players typically reject qualifying offers, though a $23 million payday for one season may appeal to Lowe.
Lowe is likely seeking a long-term contract that surpasses his previous earnings and serves as a capstone to his career. With the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) expiring on December 1, players might prefer longer contracts.
The Pirates could propose a three- or four-year deal, potentially exceeding $20 million in average annual value (AAV). Lowe may also consider a lower AAV for a longer contract, targeting three to four years.
A potential agreement might include a three-year, $60 million deal or a four-year, $85 million extension, aligning with Lowe’s talents.
Despite the trend of players declining in their 30s, Lowe is demonstrating improvement. In 2026, he has slashed .266/.368/.573 over 32 games, with 33 hits and a .941 OPS.
His performance includes 22 runs, eight doubles, 10 home runs, and 23 RBIs, leading the Pirates in home runs.
