MASSIVE DONE DEAL: Phillies key man depart to Pirates as prospect to league contract with an invite to spring as first baseman for the Triple-A roster as left-handed option

First base was one of the positions the Pirates identified as a priority to upgrade heading into the offseason. While they improved at the major league level by acquiring Spencer Horwitz, their efforts to bolster the position didn’t stop there.

Reports on X indicate that the Pirates have signed Phillies prospect to a minor-league deal with an invitation to spring training. This move was crucial, as the organization previously lacked a first baseman for their Triple-A roster. Although Malcom Nuñez was an option who could have debuted in 2024, he is more likely to play third base instead.

Pirates reportedly sign Phillies first base prospect to minor-league deal.

He has had a brief major league career so far, appearing only in 2022 and 2023. While he was productive during his stint in 2022, he struggled significantly in 2023 and underperformed in Triple-A in 2024, which kept him from returning to the majors last season.

In 2024 at Triple-A, Hall hit .236 with 16 home runs and 72 RBIs, posting a .706 OPS, which included a .320 on-base percentage and a .386 slugging percentage. His wRC+ was 84, and he struck out in 22.7% of his plate appearances.

Although those numbers were underwhelming, the Pirates are hoping to rediscover the potential Hall showed at the major league level in 2022. That year, he appeared in 42 games with the Phillies, posting a strong .804 OPS, nine home runs, and a wRC+ of 121. His main issue was a high strikeout rate of 31%, but his impressive .522 slugging percentage demonstrated his power potential.

Spencer Horwitz is expected to be the Pirates’ starting first baseman, primarily against right-handed pitching. Hall’s signing adds organizational depth at first base and provides a contingency option in case of injuries.

Hall brings much-needed power potential to the minor league system. If Eric Munson, the Indianapolis hitting coach, can help revitalize Hall’s bat—similar to the success he’s had with players like Miguel Andújar—it could make this signing a valuable addition for the Pirates.