The Pittsburgh Pirates have extended a four-year offer to free-agent designated hitter Kyle Schwarber worth more than $100 million, according to people briefed on discussions. The bid represents Pittsburgh\'s most aggressive free-agent pursuit in franchise history, though the team remains a long shot to sign the slugger.
Schwarber\'s most likely destination remains staying with the Philadelphia Phillies. The Boston Red Sox and Cincinnati Reds are also pursuing the 33-year-old power hitter. The Reds represent a homecoming opportunity for Schwarber, who is from Middletown, Ohio, approximately 35 miles north of Cincinnati.
The offer marks unprecedented territory for the Pirates in free agency. Pittsburgh has issued only one $100 million contract in franchise history, Bryan Reynolds\' $106.75 million extension. Their previous record for a free-agent signing was $39 million for left-hander Francisco Liriano in December 2014.
The Athletic projected Schwarber to receive a five-year, $145 million contract. A four-year deal at the same $29 million average annual value would total $116 million. Competition for Schwarber could push the Phillies to offer a fifth guaranteed year.
Schwarber is coming off a career-high 56 home runs and is widely regarded as one of baseball\'s best clubhouse leaders. He is expected to make his decision within the next two weeks. Teams view him as a lineup centerpiece capable of elevating the performance of surrounding hitters.
The Pirates recognize they likely will not be the highest bidder for Schwarber. Pittsburgh may pivot to lesser free agents including Jorge Polanco, Ryan O\'Hearn and Kazuma Okamoto. The franchise hopes the substantial offer demonstrates their commitment to competing after years of modest spending.
