Pirates to Make Shocking Trade to Land Standout Hitter in Stunning Move. The offseason trade rumors are starting to pick up, especially after Jeff Passan shared some insider information making the rounds in the league. Several players are said to be available, and the Pittsburgh Pirates should consider targeting a new first baseman.
One of the names being floated is Alec Bohm, the Phillies’ corner infielder who recently earned his first All-Star selection. While he might seem like a costly acquisition, Philadelphia is reportedly open to moving him, presenting a prime opportunity for the Pirates to fill one of their most pressing offseason needs.
Pirates Rumors: Phillies’ Alec Bohm should be offseason trade target
Alec Bohm is primarily a third baseman, but with the Pittsburgh Pirates, he would serve as the everyday first baseman. In 2023, he logged over 500 innings at first base, though his defensive metrics were underwhelming, posting -2 defensive runs saved (DRS) and -6 outs above average (OAA). However, in 2024, his defense at first improved slightly. He played just over 100 innings at the position, maintaining the same DRS but seeing a significant boost in his OAA, which jumped to +2.
While Bohm’s defense at third base was strong in 2024, he wouldn’t see time there in Pittsburgh, given that Ke’Bryan Hayes is entrenched at the position. However, with Hayes’ injury history, having a player like Bohm, who can fill in at third if needed, adds valuable depth. Primarily, though, Bohm would be the Pirates‘ starting first baseman, filling a significant need on the roster.
Offensively, Bohm brings solid value. While he’s not known for massive home run power, he has the ability to hit for extra bases, racking up 44 doubles in 2023. In 2024, he posted a .280 batting average, 15 home runs, 97 RBIs, and an OPS of .779. His wRC+ was 115, and his strikeout rate was a low 14.2%, highlighting his ability to make consistent contact.
Bohm’s advanced metrics also stand out. His batting run value was in the 87th percentile at +20, and he squared up balls at a 32.8% rate, which ranked in the 95th percentile. His hard-hit rate of 45.6% was in the 76th percentile, further underscoring his solid contact and ability to drive the ball.
While acquiring Bohm may require parting with multiple top-15 prospects, the Pirates have the assets to make a deal. If they pull it off, it would be a major boost for the team. Bohm would fill a glaring hole at first base, and this type of opportunity doesn’t come around often for Pittsburgh.
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