MLB insider connects Pirates to perfect trade target after Mets shakeup

There has been a lot of buzz from the Pirates this offseason. While nothing has come to life yet, Pittsburgh has been linked to several impact players on both the free agent market and trade front. The growing amount of rumors suggest they are serious about spending this offseason, and if Jon Heyman's latest report comes to reality, Pittsburgh would look a lot stronger heading into 2026.

In Heyman's weekend article, he reported that the Mets are shopping two-time All-Star Jeff McNeil and labeled the Pirates and Mariners as potential landing spots, among other teams.

After New York added Marcus Semien, second base is now spoken for. McNeil does have plenty of experience in the outfield, but the Mets reportedly do not want to put him out there. They reportedly want to add a top outfielder this offseason, and have been linked to Cody Bellinger and Kyle Tucker.

With their eyes set on bigger stars, this gives the Pirates a great chance to acquire a big offensive boost. McNeil still has an above average bat at the plate, posting a 111 wRC+ with a .746 OPS in 2025. Another bonus is his very low strikeout rate of 11.9% and a high walk rate of 10.6%. Overall, he is a solid player, and for $12.5 million, he is worth every penny. He has just one year left on his contract with a club option for 2027.

MLB insider Jon Heyman connects Pirates with Mets All-Star Jeff McNeil.

With links to McNeil, Jorge Polanco, and Brendan Donovan, the front office appears to have the idea of replacing Nick Gonzales as the everyday second baseman in mind.

A trade for McNeil shouldn't be too hefty to complete. A package of two prospects might be able to get it done - perhaps Wyatt Sanford and Zander Mueth could go the other way? They're two young prospects in Low-A who were taken early in the last few drafts. Sanford has great plate discpline for his age with decent hit tools, while Mueth has solid strikeout stuff, but his command has lagged behind.

The Pirates have a golden opportunity in front of them with McNeil. He won't be expensive in a trade, nor on the payroll. His bat could really help turn this lineup around and give wiggle room to more additions this offseason. It's great to hear that Ben Cherington has explored the market. Now he needs to make this rumor into a reality.