Pirates double down on defense with two fascinating MLB Draft selections

The Pittsburgh Pirates opened the 2026 MLB Draft by selecting one of the class’s most polished hitters in LSU outfielder Derek Curiel. They then used their next two picks to address another important organizational need: building a deeper, more athletic infield for the future.

Pittsburgh selected high school shortstop Aiden Ruiz with the No. 44 pick Saturday before taking Auburn second baseman Chris Rembert seven selections later. Three picks produced three position players, with the Pirates prioritizing contact ability, athleticism and defensive versatility over raw power.

Ruiz is the most intriguing defender of the group. MLB Pipeline’s No. 32 draft prospect received a 65 fielding grade and a 60 arm grade on the traditional 20-80 scouting scale. The 19-year-old won the Rawlings Defensive Player of the Year award following his 2025 season at The Stony Brook School in New York and later started at shortstop for Team USA during its gold medal run at the WBSC U-18 World Cup.

Ruiz has also trained with and learned from New York Mets star Francisco Lindor, an ideal mentor for a young switch-hitting shortstop trying to become a complete player. Still, Pirates insider Jason Mackey noted that Ruiz won't necessarily be looking to stick at shortstop by the time he reaches the MLB level.

The questions surrounding Ruiz are mostly offensive. At 5-foot-10 and 160 pounds, he's unlikely to develop into a major power threat. However, he brings strong bat-to-ball skills, performed well at the Draft Combine and has the defensive foundation necessary to remain at shortstop.

Pirates prioritize defensive skill with Aiden Ruiz, Chris Rembert MLB Draft picks

Rembert offers a similar contact-first profile. The Auburn infielder batted .343 with a .399 on-base percentage and an .858 OPS as a sophomore, collecting 80 hits while striking out only 39 times in 58 games. MLB Pipeline placed a 60 grade on his hit tool, while Baseball America gave him a 55.

Like Ruiz, Rembert doesn't project to hit for much power. He finished the season with four home runs, but added 13 doubles, 46 RBI and 12 stolen bases. He currently profiles as an average defensive second baseman, although his speed could allow him to eventually move to left field.

Neither player is a finished product, and Ruiz’s Vanderbilt commitment gives the Pirates another negotiation to handle. Still, Pittsburgh clearly entered this draft determined to add hitters who control the strike zone, make consistent contact and provide value beyond the batter’s box.

The Pirates’ future infield already contains several promising young pieces. By adding Ruiz’s elite defense and Rembert’s advanced bat, they have given themselves even more options — and used this draft to strengthen the organization up the middle.

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