What's Happening?
The Pittsburgh Pirates are preparing for the 2026 MLB Draft, where they hold the No. 5 overall pick. The team is navigating a pivotal moment as they aim to capitalize on the pre-arbitration era of star pitcher Paul Skenes. The Pirates have made several offseason moves, including signing free agent Ryan O'Hearn and acquiring players like Brandon Lowe and Mason Montgomery. The team also signed veteran Marcel Ozuna just before the start of spring training. Despite these additions, the Pirates face questions about their ability to compete in the National League Central, given their recent performance history. The Pirates' farm system is highly regarded, ranked No. 4 by The Athletic, and features top prospect Konnor Griffin, a 19-year-old shortstop.
The team is considering whether to focus on building around Skenes or shift towards Griffin as the future face of the franchise.
Why It's Important?
The decisions made by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the upcoming draft and their overall strategy could significantly impact their competitiveness in the MLB. With Paul Skenes potentially commanding a record arbitration contract in 2027, the team must decide whether to trade him for a substantial return or build around him. The Pirates' strong farm system provides them with valuable assets, but their recent performance has been lackluster, raising questions about their ability to contend. The outcome of the draft and the team's strategic direction will influence their long-term success and ability to compete with division rivals like the Brewers, Cubs, Reds, and Cardinals. The Pirates' approach could also set a precedent for how teams manage top prospects and arbitration-eligible players.
What's Next?
The Pirates will need to decide on their draft strategy, potentially choosing between high school prospect Jacob Lombard or college player Derek Curiel. The choice will reflect whether they are building for immediate competitiveness or long-term development. Additionally, the team must monitor the performance of their current roster and farm system to determine if mid-season trades are necessary. The potential trade of Paul Skenes could become a significant storyline, depending on the team's performance and strategic goals. The Pirates' decisions in the coming months will be closely watched by fans and analysts, as they could reshape the team's future.
