Dec 10, 2008 10:54 AM EST

The Pirates have initiated talks with three players -- center fielder Nate McLouth, catcher Ryan Doumit, and pitcher Paul Maholm -- regarding long-term contract extensions.

Multiple sources confirmed the talks, which, although in the earliest stages, could result in all three being extended through all three of their salary-arbitration years or beyond by cutting into free-agency time.

Via Post-Gazette