What's Happening?
The Pittsburgh Pirates have extended a non-roster invitation to right-handed pitcher Khristian Curtis for their 2026 Major League spring training camp. Curtis, a 23-year-old pitcher, had a notable season in 2025, splitting his time between High-A Greensboro and Double-A Altoona. He recorded an 8-5 win-loss record with a 3.90 ERA over 110.2 innings pitched, striking out 119 batters and holding opponents to a .219 batting average. Curtis showed significant improvement in the latter half of the season, achieving a 6-1 record with a 2.70 ERA from July to September, which led to his promotion to Altoona. Curtis was originally drafted by the Pirates in the 12th round of the 2023 First-Year Player Draft from Arizona State University.
Why It's Important?
Curtis's invitation
to the Pirates' spring training camp is a significant step in his professional career, offering him the opportunity to compete for a spot on the Major League roster. His performance in the upcoming camp could influence the Pirates' pitching depth and strategy for the 2026 season. For the Pirates, nurturing young talent like Curtis is crucial as they aim to build a competitive team. Curtis's development and potential contribution could impact the team's performance and provide a boost to their pitching lineup. This move also highlights the Pirates' focus on developing homegrown talent and investing in their farm system.
What's Next?
As Curtis joins the Pirates' spring training, he will have the chance to showcase his skills and compete against other pitchers for a place on the Major League roster. His performance during the camp will be closely monitored by the team's coaching staff, who will assess his readiness for the big leagues. If Curtis impresses, he could earn a spot on the Pirates' roster for the regular season, potentially making his Major League debut in 2026. The Pirates will continue to evaluate their roster needs and make decisions based on player performances during the spring training period.
