No More Moneyball: Pirates Must Build a Contender Around Hayes

Story by Yinzer Crazy Contributor Luke Ranalli

It's been a little over a month since the announcement that Ke'Bryan Hayes inked the biggest deal in Pirates history. At $70mil over the next eight years, Hayes will average roughly around $8mil per year. I think everyone's initial reaction was encouraging, as it looked like management was finally willing to open their checkbooks to provide some type of hope for this fanbase. My hope is that this isn't a one-and-done when it comes to spending.

Back in March, our Pirates' contributor David Stegon wrote about how the Pirates botched the Bryan Reynolds arbitration case -- and he couldn't have been more right. Reynolds was asking for a mere $650k more in 2022, and management wouldn't budge. $650k from a team that notoriously spends the least amount in MLB. It's downright appalling, and yet only a month afterwards, the Hayes deal was announced. I know shortly thereafter the Pirates were able to strike a deal with Reynolds, but it still left a bad taste in everyone's' mouths.

Haven't we put up with this for long enough now? It all feels reminiscent of the time Andrew McCutchen spent in the 'Burgh. Although the Pirates were a contender during 'Cutch's time here, and more money was sparsely being spent, he unfortunately never played in a World Series game.

McCutchen will ultimately go down as one of the best to ever don a Pirates jersey, and might wear that straight into Cooperstown. He amassed a laundry list of awards -- from the Roberto Clemente Award, a Gold Glove, National League MVP, 5X All Star, and much more. All of which are amazing accomplishments, but Cutch may never get a ring for his efforts, in any jersey.

Hayes still has a lot to prove in this league, and I hope he can be as successful as McCutchen was during his stint with the Pirates, but unless some money starts flowing, he's destined to go down the same path. It won't matter how many all-star games he plays in, or how many awards he amasses. Hayes will likely never be a part of a World Series during his time with these Pirates unless Nutting is willing to spend money.

There is potential for this team moving forward. The Bucs have a closer in David Bednar that could be a long-term investment. Bryan Reynolds is one of the best players in the National League, and the up and coming talent such as ONeil Cruz is enough to at least generate some excitement.

What ultimately needs to happen though is Bob opening up his wallet, clearing out the moths that have settled in, and spending some money ---  so this city, and Hayes, can enjoy the playoff run they deserve.