After batting a career low .246, and seeing a dropoff in every offensive category in 1975, Hebner's salary was cut by the Pirates for 1976. Hebner was unhappy with his club's decision, and made his feelings known to the fans and media. Coupled with an abysmal month of May (.149 batting average, 5 RBI), this landed Hebner square in the crosshairs of Pirates fans and sports writers. After hovering in the low .200s for most of the 1976 season, he rebounded with an excellent month of September to bring his season average to .249 with eight home runs and 51 RBIs (both even further dropoffs from the previous season). Needing a change in scenery, Hebner opted to play out his contract and become a free agent at the end of the season. Pirates general manager Pete Peterson attempted to dissuade Hebner from signing with another team, and offered to match any dollar offer he received elsewhere. Regardless, Hebner signed with the division rival Philadelphia Phillies.