Sep 12, 2021; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes (13) throws to first base to record an out against Washington Nationals center fielder Lane Thomas (not pictured) during the third inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
The Pittsburgh Pirates have locked up standout infielder Ke’Bryan Hayes to a franchise-record-setting contract extension.
Third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes and the Pittsburgh Pirates are in agreement on a contract extension that makes him the highest-paid player in franchise history, according to sources familiar with the situation.
Hayes and the Pirates briefly talked about an extension last season, but talks fizzled after it was apparent that there was a significant gap in discussions. But both sides recently reopened talks, with the Pirates making their first offer on April 2, and the Pirates and Hayes’ camp led by Scott Lonergan of the Ballengee Group making progress in recent days, sources said.
Now, Hayes becomes the face of the Pirates’ rebuild.
Pirates sign 3B Ke’Bryan Hayes to massive contract extension
Hayes, 25, has otherworldly talent that has left scouts buzzing since he was selected in the first round of the 2015 MLB Draft.
In 120 career games, Hayes has hit .280/.340/.432 with 11 home runs and 49 RBI, while finishing sixth in the Rookie of the Year voting in 2020.