Pittsburgh Pirates Prospects: Minor League Statistical Leaders
By Noah Wright
On-Base Percentage
Matthew Fraizer
.388
Among the Pittsburgh Pirates breakout players throughout the farm system, none had one as good as Matthew Fraizer did. The outfielder went into 2021 as a light-hitting, speedy outfielder. While he kept the speedy outfielder part of his description, he was far from just a light-hitting bat.
Throughout 499 plate appearances at High-A and Double-A, Fraizer put up a .306/.388/.552 with a .402 wOBA, and 149 wRC+. He also slammed 23 total home runs, which also led all Pirates. Fraizer’s big power output was reflected in his .242 isolated slugging percentage.
Fraizer also displayed solid plate discipline, having a 21.6% strikeout rate and 11.2% walk rate, which led to a fantastic OBP. The speed he was known for was still there with 15 stolen bases. Fraizer managed a ground ball rate of just 37.2% while having a solid 22.5% line drive rate. His 40.5% flyball rate was the likely source of his big power boost.
Given his solid production at Double-A and 2022 being his age-24 season, Fraizer will surely get a shot in the major leagues next season, barring injury or a sudden drop in performance. His outstanding season put him on MLB Pipeline’s prospect map as he is currently ranked as their 23rd best prospect.