Emergence of Esmerlyn Valdez
Before 2025, the Pirates system faced a significant issue: a lack of impactful hitting prospects. However, Esmerlyn Valdez has emerged as a talented player worth watching.
Under the guidance of General Manager Ben Cherington, the Pirates have successfully developed talented arms throughout their system. Until this season, they had not seen the same results with their offensive talent.
Prior to the 2025 season, the biggest question facing the Pirates' system was their lack of impactful hitting prospects, with most of their top-end talent being pitchers. This changed during the season, with their offensive prospects making significant progress.
Esmerlyn Valdez has come out of nowhere as a slugging stud worth watching.
Author's summary: Valdez emerges as a hitting prospect.