The Pirates CEO is responding directly to frustrated fans who are calling for the owner to sell the team

The Pittsburgh Pirates he had a new season in 2024 on the back of a young coaching staff. Rookie Paul Skenes led the way with a Rookie of the Year campaign and opened the team’s competitive window. But an off-season dispute without any significant additions has once again angered fans. At a recent fan fest, one Pirates fan called on owner Bob Nutting to sell the team, amid his significant absence. CEO Travis Williams recorded that idea down, according to ESPN.

“To answer your immediate question that you said earlier, Bob is not going to sell the team,” Williams said. “He cares about Pittsburgh, he cares about winning, he cares about us putting a winning product on the field, and we work on that every day.”

Nutting has been owned by the Pirates since 2007, 18 years with just three playoff appearances. They couldn’t contain stars like Gerrit Cole and quickly fell out of contention. Although they drafted well and developed several solid professional players, it did not culminate in team success. With the star pitcher back in the fold, fans want a new boss to lead the Pirates.

But Williams rubbished any rumors that Nutting was putting the team up for sale. So, given their current situation, how can the Pirates improve for 2025?

The Pirates need to take over the offense this offseason

The Pirates struggled offensively and couldn’t sustain their momentum during the summer. On July 31, they were 55-53 and 2.5 games out of the Wild Card race. They went 21-33 down the stretch, worst in the National League, and finished 76-86. The offense was the reason for that collapse and must be fixed this offseason.

A new trend emerged in MLB free agency last offseason. When Jack Flaherty couldn’t find a long-term contract, he did signed a one-year deal with the upstart Detroit Tigers. It worked out for both sides, although Flaherty is still waiting for another long-term deal. If the Pirates can do that with a star offensive lineman, it would help them tremendously.

The most realistic option for the Pirates is Alex Verdugo, who struggled under the Bronx last season. Without the Yankees’ qualifying offer, it wouldn’t cost them any draft picks. And his market is light after a tough season. But if he does return, he could be a great addition to a young team.

The Pirates should go in for some bargain free agents this offseason to help their offense. With a special pitching talent like Skenes, they should fill out their roster with hitting bats.