Pirates’ top draft pick has already lost valuable development time before his professional debut

The Pittsburgh Pirates have opted to delay the professional debut of 2026 fifth overall pick Derek Curiel, keeping him out of minor league action for four months following the draft. The decision stems partly from a broken ankle he suffered in November 2025 before his sophomore season at LSU. Pirates director of coaching and player development Michael Chernow explained that the organization chose to prioritize rehabilitation, physical development, and early offseason training over immediate competitive play.

Emma Lingan of Rum Bunter argues that while Pittsburgh is taking a calculated gamble, Curiel is losing valuable development time against professional competition. Curiel has worked to increase his weight from 188 to 200 pounds and refine his swing to generate more power. The Pirates previously found success taking a similar patient approach with prospects Konnor Griffin and Murf Gray ahead of their respective debuts.