Pittsburgh Pirates: Bubba Chandler Hits 1st Professional Home Run

Pittsburgh Pirates two-way player, Bubba Chandler hits his first professional home run this past Monday in the FCL.

The Pittsburgh Pirates drafted Bubba Chandler in the 3rd round of the 2021 MLB draft in hopes that he would decide to play professional baseball instead of playing college football for Clemson University. There were rumors that Chandler wanted to be able to pitch and play the field if he was to commit to baseball.

The Pirates gave him that option and signed him for $3 million, an over-slot value of just over $2.1 million. So far, Chandler looks the part. In his first FCL game of 2022, he hit his first professional home run.

The switching hitting shortstop/pitcher will primarily DH this season as well as pitch for the Pirates in the minor leagues. He went 2-4 on the day with 2 runs scored, 3RBIs, and a stolen base which included the home run he sent well over the fence. The day prior, he pitched 1 inning of no hit ball with 1 strikeout before the game was cancelled due to weather.

After the game I asked Bubba what his thoughts were during the at bat that led to the home run. He responded with ” During the at bat, I looked at 2 fastball’s for strikes, but I saw them well. Then he (Paez) went changeup back to back for balls that I laid off. So I knew he was coming back with a fastball, so I jumped on it”

According to MLB Pipeline, Chandler was considered the 21st best prospect on the board during the draft. His fastball is considered his best pitch and also has an impressive power grade of 50. He is one of the most interesting prospects the Pirates have had in a long time because he can do both and at a high level.

It will be interesting to see how long he stays in the FCL and how the Pittsburgh Pirates manage his playing time at the designated hitter position this season. Either way make sure to keep an eye on this young promising prospect through out this year.