Pirates Top Prospects No. 24: Connor Wietgrefe Provides Needed Rotation Depth

Danny Demilio ranks left-handed pitcher Connor Wietgrefe as the Pittsburgh Pirates' No. 24 prospect, projecting him as crucial starting rotation depth for the 2027 season. Wietgrefe produced a strong campaign split between Double-A Altoona and Triple-A Indianapolis, compiling a 10-6 record with a combined 3.27 ERA and 134 strikeouts across 151.1 innings pitched.

Demilio highlights that the 24-year-old southpaw features a versatile repertoire including a low-90s fastball, slider, sweeper, changeup, and cutter. With Pittsburgh lacking left-handed starting options throughout the season, Demilio argues that the Pirates should rely on Wietgrefe as a rotation depth option when needed.