The Pittsburgh Pirates went back to the college well on Saturday, using the fifth overall pick of the MLB Draft in Philadelphia to grab LSU outfielder Derek Curiel, a polished left-handed contact bat and legitimate center-field option for an organization that has been stocking the big-league roster through the draft.
Curiel, 21, hit .353 this season with 18 doubles, six homers, 46 RBIs and 13 steals, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. LSU Athletics lists him at 6-foot-2 and notes his freshman national honors and role on the Tigers' 2025 College World Series title team.
Scouting services had Curiel pegged among the top college bats in this draft class. MLB Pipeline points to his advanced contact skills, patient approach and defensive instincts as reasons he could climb the minor-league ladder quickly. That profile, and the fact that it comes from the left side, made Curiel a relatively low-risk target for the Pirates at No. 5.
Why The Pick Matters For The Pirates
The move keeps Pittsburgh firmly committed to a draft-first build, following recent first-round hits such as Paul Skenes and Konnor Griffin. As MLB.com has noted, the club has leaned toward college bats and polished players who can shorten the gap between draft night and PNC Park.
What Scouts Liked
Evaluators zeroed in on Curiel’s bat-to-ball ability and knack for getting on base. Baseball America reports that his lean frame may cap his future power output, but also praises his center-field instincts and consistent contact record. That blend of reliability and defensive value fits a front office that prizes readiness and versatility with its top selections.
Cash, Bonuses And Next Steps
The fifth overall draft slot carries a benchmark value of $8,336,500, and Pittsburgh Baseball Now reports that the Pirates could pursue an under-slot deal to stretch their bonus pool for other Day One picks. In that scenario, Curiel would likely report to instructional league or jump straight into a high-A assignment while the organization maps out his development track.
“Derek is an exciting addition to our organization,” Pirates senior vice president Kevan Graves said, according to Pittsburgh Baseball Now. For Pittsburgh, the selection adds another college bat with polish and underscores a draft strategy built around players expected to contribute sooner rather than later.
