Pirates’ newest free-agent target could help Ben Cherington recreate his best offseason formula

MLB.com has identified former Houston Astros reliever Bryan Abreu as a potential free-agent target for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Writer Emma Lingan argues that pursuing Abreu could fit general manager Ben Cherington's proven formula of signing established veterans who can rebound in the right environment, particularly given the presence of former Astros coach Bill Murphy.

However, Lingan warns that Abreu's underlying metrics declined in 2026, featuring reduced velocity and an increased walk rate. With ESPN projecting Abreu to command a one-year, $10.5 million contract, the writer cautions that Pittsburgh must be careful not to overpay for past success when evaluating the free-agent reliever.