Pirates linked to two expensive free agent lefties, but only one of them fits in Pittsburgh

Writer Emma Lingan argues that while the Pittsburgh Pirates have been linked to free agent left-handed pitchers Robbie Ray and Foster Griffin, Griffin represents a more sensible investment. Former MLB general manager Jim Bowden projected in The Athletic that Ray could sign a two-year, $45 million contract, while Griffin could command a three-year, $67 million deal as Pittsburgh seeks rotation balance.

Lingan notes that the 35-year-old Ray represents an expensive gamble given his age, injury history, and a 5.02 ERA with the San Diego Padres down the stretch in 2026. Conversely, the writer views the 31-year-old Griffin as a more appealing long-term option despite recent struggles with the Cleveland Guardians, though questions remain about whether Pittsburgh will commit over $20 million annually.