Maholm, Hinske Contract Details

ESPN.com reported the specifics of the new contracts for starter Paul Maholm and new utility player Eric Hinske. Maholm received a three year deal worth $14.5 million. That total includes salaries for 2009 ($3.5 Mil), 2010 ($4.5 Mil), 2011 ($5.75 Mil) and the potential buyout ($750,000) for the team option year of 2012. If that option is exercised, Maholm's salary for 2012 would be $9.75 million (or potentially up to $11.05 million based on his performance in the prior three years). The three guaranteed salaries are very reasonable based on Maholm's career thus far. If he continues to pitch as he has the past two seasons, this deal should work out quite well for Pittsburgh.

Hinske signed a one year deal. His base salary will be $1.5 million with the chance to earn up to a total of $2.5 million based on performance bonuses. That deal is more than reasonable for a solid, versatile veteran who can provide a little power off the bench.

Outfielder Nate McLouth is the only arbitration-eligible Pirate that remains unsigned. His hearing is scheduled for February 17. Plenty of time to get a deal done.