Pirates linked to Mets' $22 million reliever instead of Mason Miller trade

The Pittsburgh Pirates have a much-improved offense in 2026. 

It's one of the reasons they are in contention for an NL Wild Card spot.

Offseason additions Ryan O'Hearn and Brandon Lowe have brought solid production, and rookie Esmeryln Valdez is having an otherworldly start to his career. 

As the trade deadline approaches, the Pirates have a few goals in mind. According to The Athletic's Jim Bowden, the front office wants to target relievers and strong defenders. 

"Ben [Cherington] is prioritizing run prevention at this trade deadline and has told opposing GMs that his goal is to improve the bullpen and defense," Bowden wrote. 

Pirates are interested in Luke Weaver

He was asked a question about the possibility of the Pirates trading for Mason Miller, but that does not seem likely. 

"In terms of Miller, the Pirates are not in play for him, however, Cherington does have interest in all of the available Mets relievers, and that includes [Luke] Weaver, who would be a great fit." 

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Weaver is having a great first season in Queens after signing a two-year, $22 million deal during the offseason. If the Pirates were to make a trade for the right-hander, they would have him through the 2027 season. 

In 40 appearances this season, Weaver has a 1.93 ERA with 43 strikeouts and a 0.833 WHIP in 42 innings. 

He could become Pittsburgh's setup man or closer, depending on what the Pirates want to do with Gregory Soto's role. 

More MLB news:

• Yankees are ‘leading candidate’ to trade for Twins’ Ryan Jeffers
• Red Sox ‘would love’ to trade for Angels’ Zach Neto or Astros’ Jeremy Pena
• Padres likely not to trade Mason Miller amid latest update
• Tigers expected to trade Tarik Skubal but still try to contend without him
• Mets ‘desperate’ to trade Luis Robert Jr. after trade failure