Potential Pirates Trade Targets: Major Upgrade at First Base

This is one in a series of examining potential trade targets for the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2024-25 offseason.

In a rare reversal of roles, the Pittsburgh Pirates should take advantage of payroll concerns and call the Texas Rangers to help fill a void at first base.

The Rangers are expected to shave some of their payroll after a disappointing 2024 season, one year after winning their first World Series. First base — and offensive help in general — are atop Ben Cherington’s wish list this winter.

Sounds like a match made in heaven, no?

One player the Rangers could look to deal this winter is first baseman Nathaniel Lowe, who is under contract for two more seasons and is projected to earn $10.7 million in arbitration this offseason. A significant amount of money, sure, but the Pirates need to be aggressive in trying to build a winner after six-straight losing seasons.

Since taking over full-time duties for the Rangers in 2021, Lowe has been as steady of a performer with the bat in his hands as there is. Since the start of the season, the 29-year-old carries a .274/.359/.432 slash with 104 doubles, 10 triples, 78 home runs and 299 RBIs in 615 games.

This past season, the 6-foot-4 Lowe slashed .265/.361/.401 with 33 extra-base hits, including 16 homers and 69 RBIs in 140 games. As is the case with PNC Park’s short porch in right field, Lowe’s left-handed swing adds to his appeal.

In addition to his offense, Lowe has turned into a solid defender and won a Gold Glove last season. In addition to having a Gold Glove on his mantle, Lowe won a Silver Slugger in 2022 and had helped guide Texas to the World Series in 2023.

Because of his pedigree and since he has two years of control as opposed to just one, the Pirates would have to be willing to move with notable assets to land his services. But Lowe’s potential to impact Pittsburgh’s lineup and give them a reliable presence for two seasons should make it easier to be willing to do so.

If Lowe truly is available this offseason, he should be near the top of the Pirates’ list of targets.