The Pittsburgh Pirates have been steadily building an exciting farm system packed with young talent ready to make an impact in the coming years. With a mix of high-upside arms, power-hitting infielders, and dynamic athletes, the future in Pittsburgh is looking brighter. The Pirates have assembled a deep and well-rounded group of prospects from electric pitchers like Bubba Chandler and Braxton Ashcraft to promising hitters like Termarr Johnson and Konnor Griffin.

As 2025 gets underway, some of these names are on the verge of breaking into the big leagues, while others are just beginning their professional journey. Whether it’s high-velocity fastballs, elite defensive skills, or raw power at the plate, each of these top prospects brings something unique. Let’s look closer at the top 10 Pirates prospects to watch this season.

1. Bubba Chandler, RHP

Bubba Chandler is a premier pitching prospect in the Pirates’ system. At 22, he boasts a dynamic arsenal, including a fastball that touches 99 mph and a changeup graded at 70. His 2024 season saw him ascend to Triple-A, where he recorded a 3.08 ERA over 119.2 innings, striking out 30.1% of batters faced. With continued refinement, Chandler projects as a formidable presence in the Pirates’ rotation. ​

2. Konnor Griffin, SS/OF

Selected ninth overall in the 2024 draft, Konnor Griffin brings a tantalizing blend of power and speed to the Pirates. At just 18, his athleticism allows him to excel both at shortstop and in the outfield. While his hit tool remains a work in progress, Griffin’s potential for 30-30 seasons makes him a prospect to watch closely as he develops. ​

3. Thomas Harrington, RHP

Thomas Harrington epitomizes consistency and control on the mound. The 23-year-old right-hander split his 2024 season between Double-A and Triple-A, posting a stellar 2.61 ERA and an impressive 6.05 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 22 appearances. His five-pitch repertoire, highlighted by a low-90s fastball and effective breaking balls, positions him as a reliable mid-rotation starter in the near future. ​

4. Termarr Johnson, 2B/SS

Termarr Johnson, the fourth overall pick in 2022, has showcased significant power potential, belting 20 home runs in 2024. While his batting average has room for improvement, his mid-season surge and subsequent promotion to Double-A Altoona highlight his upward trajectory. At 20, Johnson’s continued development could see him reclaim his top prospect status. ​

5. Nick Yorke, 2B

Acquired from the Red Sox in 2024, Nick Yorke made an immediate impact within the Pirates organization. After his promotion to Triple-A Indianapolis, he slashed an impressive .355/.431/.507, earning a brief MLB debut. At 22, Yorke’s refined defensive skills and consistent bat make him a strong candidate for a starting role in Pittsburgh’s infield. ​

6. Braxton Ashcraft, RHP

Despite past injury challenges, Braxton Ashcraft demonstrated resilience and skill in 2024. Over 73 innings across Double-A and Triple-A, he maintained a 1.07 WHIP and a 26% strikeout rate. At 25, Ashcraft’s trajectory suggests he could soon bolster the Pirates’ rotation, provided he remains healthy. ​

7. Hunter Barco, LHP

Hunter Barco, a 2023 second-round pick from the University of Florida, has been on a rapid ascent. In 2024, he recorded a 3.27 ERA and a 1.06 WHIP across High-A and Double-A, averaging 11.3 strikeouts per nine innings. As a 24-year-old lefty, Barco’s continued progression could see him anchoring higher-level rotations soon.

8. Mitch Jebb, 2B/SS

Mitch Jebb’s 2024 season was marked by his exceptional speed, stealing 43 bases. Coupled with a solid hit tool, his offensive contributions are noteworthy. Jebb’s all-around game continues to develop as he refines his defensive versatility between second base and shortstop. ​

9. Wyatt Sanford, SS

Drafted 47th overall in 2024, Wyatt Sanford is recognized for his defensive prowess at shortstop. The Pirates have been adjusting his left-handed swing, aiming to unlock his offensive potential. At 19, Sanford’s combination of athleticism and developing bat makes him an intriguing prospect. ​

10. Levi Sterling, RHP

Levi Sterling, selected 37th overall in 2024, offers a promising future on the mound. Standing at 6-foot-5, the 18-year-old chose pitching over hitting, showcasing a skill set that hints at a mid-rotation starter or better. His development will be closely monitored as he transitions to professional baseball. ​

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