​Between a doubleheader and the 2026 First-Year Player Draft, the Pittsburgh Pirates were active on Saturday. The Bucs emerged victorious in both games against the Brewers. When the draft arrived in Philadelphia, the team held the fifth overall pick, and they returned to a familiar destination for their selection: LSU. The Pirates chose outfielder Derek Curiel.
“Derek is an exciting addition to our organization and someone we believe has the talent, character, and work ethic to make a meaningful impact,” Kevan Graves said in a statement for the Pirates. “He is a well-rounded, athletic player with an advanced approach at the plate, exceptional bat-to-ball skills, and the ability to impact the game in all facets.”
Curiel was listed as the 12th-best prospect by some evaluators, which led to the perception that this pick could be a reach for the Pirates. Nevertheless, he has enjoyed success at LSU, leading the team in hitting as a freshman and earning a place on the College World Series All-Tournament Team.
At 21 years old, Curiel described himself with a strikingly gritty mindset. “Just kind of a gritty mentality,” he said after being drafted. “I like to get dirty. I like to dive headfirst. I like to make diving plays… score runs on offense and save runs on defense… I’m just trying to do whatever it takes to help the team win.”
The Pirates accumulated five selections on Saturday, adding two outfielders, a shortstop, a second baseman, and a pitcher to their prospect roster. The draft continued on Sunday.
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