If this is true, this is about worst case scenario for Pirates. A draft tax of 75-100% of each dollar spent above a threshold, more players get super two status, if a player is going to be a free agent, the qualifying offer will be determined by a formula instead of arbitration from what I've gathered, and the number will be likely above $12 million for one year. Also, if the player declines and signs, instead of the signing team losing the pick altogether, they just move to the end of the first round, meaning that signing a big buck free agent won't stop the Yankees and Red Sox from picking in the top 32 picks. On the plus side for Pirates hope, after the Astros move to the AL, 10 teams make playoffs!