Pirates 2017 Draft: A Look Back

Ahoy, mateys! Let's dive into the Pittsburgh Pirates' 2017 draft and see what treasures (or lack thereof) they unearthed. The draft is a crucial part of any baseball team's long-term success, so let's break down the Pirates' picks and how they've panned out. We will analyze who was picked, what the expectations were, and where these players are now. Join us as we navigate through the highs and lows of this particular draft class and analyze its impact on the Pirates organization. It’s time to hoist the Jolly Roger and set sail into the sea of prospects!

First Round: Shane Baz

In the first round, with the 12th overall pick, the Pirates selected Shane Baz, a right-handed pitcher from Concordia Lutheran High School in Tomball, Texas. Baz was considered one of the top high school arms in the draft, possessing a fastball that could reach the mid-90s and a promising curveball. The expectations were high, with many scouts projecting him as a potential frontline starter. The Pirates hoped that Baz would develop into a cornerstone of their pitching rotation for years to come. The initial reviews were glowing, highlighting his advanced feel for pitching and his projectable frame. However, Baz's time in the Pirates organization was relatively short-lived. He was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays in 2018 as part of the deal that brought Chris Archer to Pittsburgh. While Archer's tenure with the Pirates was ultimately disappointing, Baz has since emerged as a highly regarded prospect in the Rays' system. He has continued to develop his repertoire and refine his command. Baz made his major league debut with the Rays in 2021 and has shown flashes of brilliance, solidifying his status as a key piece of their future. Looking back, the Pirates' selection of Baz was a solid pick based on the information available at the time. While it's impossible to predict trades and future development, Baz's success with the Rays underscores the inherent uncertainty of the draft process. This pick underscores the inherent uncertainty of the draft process, where potential can either blossom or wither depending on various unforeseen circumstances.

Other Notable Picks

Beyond Shane Baz, the Pirates made several other selections in the 2017 draft that are worth examining. These picks provide further insight into the team's drafting strategy and the overall success of the draft class. Let's take a closer look at some of the other notable players chosen by the Pirates in that year's draft. We will explore their initial promise, their journey through the minor leagues, and their current status within or outside the organization. It's time to weigh anchor and look at other notable selections.

Steven Jennings

In the second round, the Pirates selected Steven Jennings, another right-handed pitcher. Jennings was known for his control and ability to throw strikes. While he didn't possess the same raw velocity as Baz, Jennings was seen as a potential back-end starter or reliever. Unfortunately, Jennings never reached the major leagues with the Pirates. He spent several seasons in their minor league system, but his development stalled, and he was eventually released. Jennings' career illustrates the challenges that many draft picks face as they try to navigate the minor leagues. The path to the majors is fraught with obstacles, and even players with promising skills can struggle to reach their full potential. Many factors contribute to a player's success or failure, including injuries, competition, and the ability to adapt to the demands of professional baseball. His journey serves as a reminder of the high attrition rate in baseball and the difficulty of predicting which players will ultimately make it to the highest level. This is the harsh reality of player development in professional baseball. The Pirates hoped to find a reliable pitching option, but Jennings' career took a different turn, highlighting the uncertainties involved in the draft process.

Oneil Cruz

One of the most intriguing picks from the Pirates' 2017 draft was Oneil Cruz, who was acquired via trade shortly after the draft. While technically not a direct draft pick, his arrival is closely tied to the 2017 draft class. Cruz is a towering shortstop with exceptional athleticism and raw power. His combination of size and skill is rare, making him one of the most exciting prospects in baseball. After arriving in the Pirates organization, Cruz quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his impressive offensive and defensive abilities. He made his major league debut in 2021 and has since become a focal point of the Pirates' rebuilding efforts. Cruz's impact on the field is undeniable, and his potential is immense. He possesses the kind of game-changing talent that can transform a franchise. While his development has had some bumps, his ceiling remains incredibly high, making him a key player to watch in the years to come. As a result, he has become an integral part of the Pirates' future plans, demonstrating the team's commitment to building a competitive roster through both the draft and strategic trades. His electrifying play and potential for stardom have solidified his place as a cornerstone of the organization.

Where Are They Now?

So, where are the key players from the Pirates' 2017 draft now? Let's take a quick look at their current situations and assess the overall impact of the draft class on the organization. Understanding their current status helps us evaluate the effectiveness of the Pirates' scouting and player development efforts.

• Shane Baz: As mentioned earlier, Baz is now a promising young pitcher with the Tampa Bay Rays. He has already made his major league debut and is expected to be a key part of their rotation for years to come. His development into a frontline starter highlights the Rays' ability to identify and nurture talent.
• Steven Jennings: Jennings is no longer with the Pirates organization. After struggling to progress through the minor leagues, he was released and is currently not playing professional baseball. His career serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of player development.
• Oneil Cruz: Cruz is currently a key player for the Pittsburgh Pirates. He has established himself as an exciting and dynamic player with immense potential. His presence in the lineup provides hope for the future and demonstrates the Pirates' commitment to building a competitive team.

Final Grade

Overall, the Pirates' 2017 draft can be viewed as a mixed bag. While the selection of Shane Baz was promising, his subsequent trade to the Rays diminishes the impact of that pick. The acquisition of Oneil Cruz, though not a direct draft pick, is a major success story and significantly boosts the overall grade of the draft class. However, the lack of other significant contributors from the draft tempers the enthusiasm. The draft process is inherently unpredictable, and teams must navigate a complex landscape of scouting reports, player evaluations, and developmental challenges. Considering these factors, let's assign a final grade to the Pirates' 2017 draft class.

Final Grade: C+

The Pirates' 2017 draft class shows the inherent challenges and uncertainties involved in scouting and player development. While Oneil Cruz stands out as a major success, other picks did not pan out as hoped. It serves as a reminder of the complexities of building a successful baseball team through the draft. The team's ability to identify and develop talent remains crucial for their long-term competitiveness. In conclusion, while the 2017 draft had its moments, the Pirates will need to continue refining their approach to player acquisition and development to ensure sustained success in the future. As always, we will continue to track the progress of these players and evaluate the long-term impact of this draft class on the organization. Until next time, fair winds and following seas!