Pittsburgh Pirates: Henry Davis Looks Healthy and Working Out

The Pittsburgh Pirates had the first overall selection in the 2021 MLB draft.  They selected a power hitter who had immediate success.

When the Pittsburgh Pirates selected catcher Henry Davis with the top pick in the 2021 Draft, some were surprised.  I myself was surprised as all signs seemed to be pointing to the two prep shortstops.  Instead, that was simply a smokescreen as the Bucs pivoted to Davis, the top college bat in the Draft.

Why did Ben Cherington and staff operate this way?  Well, they believe they got the top bat in the Draft class and one that is at a premium position. However, it was also very clear that the team was going to be aggressive with their day two selections.  They were, landing Anthony Solometo, Lonnie White Jr., and Bubba Chandler.

It was nice to see the Pittsburgh Pirates make waves at the draft.  Still, only one thing will really matter and that is whether or not Henry Davis becomes an All-Star caliber player.  Teams do not get the first overall pick very often so they cannot miss when they have the opportunity.  Although, plenty of teams have in the past.

This does not seem like it is going to be the case for Henry Davis.  Davis made an immediate impression and showed why the Bucs used the top pick on him.  He was able to play in just eight games but hit .308/.387/.808 with three homers, two doubles, and a triple.  The power was evident.

Unfortunately, Davis’ season was cut early.  The top pick went on Greensboro’s Injury list toward the end of August with a strained oblique.  This was obviously disappointing as many wanted to see Davis get as much time as possible.  Oblique injuries can be tricky and if not given the proper time to heal can turn into a lingering problem.  So the team shut him down for the rest of the year.

The good news, Henry Davis appears to be healthy and working out down at Pirate City.  Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette recently tweeted a video of the top pick crushing a homerun:

This is good news.  The Pittsburgh Pirates are on a very strategic timeline toward competing in 2023.  If all goes right for Davis, he can be a part of that group.  If he hits anything like he did last year then he should be up by then.  The big thing is that the oblique continues to stay healthy and not cause any issues as he begins his first full season of professional baseball.

As the offseason starts, be sure to follow along for all the latest news, rumors, and general ideas for the Pittsburgh Pirates.  Also, be sure to give Jason Mackey a follow as well!