When the Pirates selected Derek Curiel with the fifth overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft, it wasn’t just another name added to the roster—it was a statement. Personally, I think this move speaks volumes about Pittsburgh’s strategy and their faith in Curiel’s potential. What makes this particularly fascinating is that Curiel, an outfielder from LSU, wasn’t the obvious choice according to most mock drafts. Many expected the Pirates to go for pitcher Jackson Flora, but when he went to the Giants at number four, Pittsburgh pivoted to Curiel. This raises a deeper question: What did the Pirates see in Curiel that others might have overlooked?
From my perspective, Curiel’s selection is a bet on his gritty, all-around game. His playstyle, which he describes as ‘Pete Rose-style baseball,’ is a refreshing throwback in an era dominated by power hitters. What many people don’t realize is that Curiel’s value isn’t just in his bat—it’s in his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. His .353 batting average, 13 stolen bases, and defensive versatility make him a rare commodity. If you take a step back and think about it, players like Curiel—who can contribute both offensively and defensively—are becoming increasingly valuable in today’s game.
One thing that immediately stands out is Curiel’s journey to this point. He was once a highly touted high school prospect but chose to develop further at LSU after a subpar senior season. This decision paid off, as he emerged as one of the best pure hitters in the draft class. In my opinion, this shows maturity and a willingness to grind, traits that will serve him well in the pros. What this really suggests is that Curiel isn’t just a talented player—he’s a determined one.
A detail that I find especially interesting is Curiel’s comparison to Christian Yelich. While Yelich eventually developed into a power hitter, Curiel’s ceiling might be more modest, with scouts projecting 12-15 home runs per year. However, what sets Curiel apart is his ability to stick in center field, a position Yelich couldn’t maintain long-term. This defensive versatility, combined with his offensive skills, could make him a cornerstone player for the Pirates.
What makes this draft pick even more intriguing is LSU’s recent track record of producing MLB stars. Paul Skenes, Dylan Crews, and Kade Anderson are just a few names that come to mind. Curiel could very well be the next in line. In my opinion, the Pirates are not just drafting a player—they’re tapping into a pipeline of proven talent.
Looking ahead, I’m curious to see how Curiel’s playstyle translates to the professional level. His ‘gritty mentality’ and willingness to do the little things could make him a fan favorite in Pittsburgh. However, the question remains: Can he develop enough power to become a truly elite player? Personally, I think his floor is solid, but his ceiling will depend on how much he can grow in the coming years.
If you take a step back and think about it, the Pirates’ decision to draft Curiel is a calculated risk—one that could pay off handsomely. In a league where versatility and consistency are undervalued, Curiel has the potential to stand out. What this really suggests is that Pittsburgh is building a team not just for power, but for balance. And in a game as unpredictable as baseball, that might just be the smartest move of all.
