The Pittsburgh Pirates are building around third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes.

A person with knowledge of the agreement tells The Associated Press the Pirates and Hayes have come to terms on a new eight-year, $70 million deal pending the 25-year-old Hayes passing a physical. A formal announcement isn’t expected until the team’s home opener on April 12.

Hayes batted third in Pittsburgh’s season-opening 9-0 loss at St. Louis on Thursday but exited with left forearm spasms in the first inning. He was limited to 96 games last year due to a left wrist injury.

Hayes was scheduled to hit third in Pittsburgh’s season opener in St. Louis on Thursday.

The deal gives the team some stability as they continue a methodical build-up under general manager Ben Cherington.

Hayes entered the 2022 season hitting .280 in 120 career games.