Pirates insider predicts Brandon Lowe heartbreak fans are already fearing

Pirates insider Jason Mackey predicted that free-agent second baseman Brandon Lowe will sign elsewhere this winter. Mackey suggested other teams might offer a four-year contract that could exceed Pittsburgh's comfort zone, despite Lowe hitting over 30 home runs during the 2026 season.

Emma Lingan argues that losing Lowe would be a major setback after Pittsburgh finished 82-80, ending a long streak of losing seasons. Lingan emphasizes that general manager Ben Cherington must accept financial risk rather than restart the search for proven power.