Pirates Three-Year Draft Run Potentially Franchise-Altering

Griffin flew threw his first minor-league season in 2025 and set the world on fire. He started with Low-A Bradenton and climbed all the way to Double-A Altoona.

Sure, the 19-year-old (turns 20 tomorrow) has had a rough start to his big-league career, but for someone who only had five games above Double-A prior to his first game with the Pirates, that was probabably to be expected.

Is there reason to worry? Not really. Griffin is going to be fine, and he’s going to be around for a long time. Griffin signed a nine-year, $140 million extension shortly after debuting. It’s the largest contract in franchise history and one that will keep a second potential franchise cornerstone in a black and gold uniform through the 2034 season.

Last year, the Pirates again dipped into the prep pool but this time went with a starting pitcher. Right-hander Seth Hernandez was the sixth overall pick as one of the top high school pitching prospects in years.

Hernandez did not appear in a game after being drafted but is off to an incredible start with Low-A Bradenton this year. Through his first three starts, the 19-year-old has allowed one run on three hits in 12 innings with three walks and a whopping 23 strikeouts.

Obviously, Hernandez has a ways to go before he impacts the Pirates. But his stuff is already off the charts and if he continues to perform at a high level, he not only has a chance to one day be the top pitching prospect in the sport but could be fast-tracked to the big leagues.

It’s been quite a run for the Pirates when drafting in the first round. The Steelers will be looking for some of that when their pick is announced on the stage down the street from PNC Park on Thursday night.

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