Surprising Pirates reunion prediction could become an expensive offseason mistake

Emma Lingan of Rum Bunter argues that re-signing free-agent reliever Gregory Soto to a projected two-year, $22 million contract would be an expensive mistake for the Pittsburgh Pirates. MLB insider Jim Bowden of The Athletic identified Pittsburgh as the sole best fit for the 31-year-old left-hander, who posted a 3.63 ERA, 79 strikeouts, and 16 saves across 67 innings in 2026 after previously signing a one-year, $7.75 million deal.

Lingan contends that Soto's six blown saves and command issues represent volatility Pittsburgh must avoid. While the club needs bullpen depth following Kirby Yates' retirement, Lingan highlights that the emergence of Mason Montgomery and Luke Weaver, alongside major needs at starting pitcher, catcher, third base, and retaining Brandon Lowe, makes an $11 million annual commitment to Soto an unwise allocation of financial resources.