Pirates' surprising Arizona Fall League standout is making a case for a bigger role in 2027

Rarely do players chosen in the minor league phase of the Rule 5 draft make much of an impact. In fact, casual fans may never really notice them at all. But Bryan Mena, whom the Pirates claimed from the Rockies in last December’s busy Rule 5 draft, doesn’t seem content with that level of obscurity and is generating buzz in the Arizona Fall League.

Mena was average, at best, with High-A Greensboro this season and still hasn’t settled on his role as a pro. He made 14 starts and eight appearances out of the bullpen. With Glendale in the AFL, the right-hander is getting experience as an opener and a reliever, and he has been impeccable. In 10 2/3 innings, he has yet to yield a run. If Mena can build on this strong foundation, he could bolster the Pirates’ bullpen depth in the upper levels of the minors in 2027.

Bryan Mena, a minor league Rule 5 draft pick by the Pirates last winter, is turning heads in the Arizona Fall League.

Mena’s success may have his roots in adjustments he made during the regular season. He cut his walk rate from 4.8 BB/9 in 2024 and 2025 to 3.8 in 2026. He has maintained that control in the AFL, posting a walk rate of 3.4. It’s possible that the reduction in walks caused Mena to leave more pitches in the zone, as his HR/9 jumped from 0.8 to 1.9 in 2026. So far, that hasn’t been a problem in the AFL.

The Pirates’ bullpen could use all the help it can get. Last year, more than 20 players appeared in relief for Pittsburgh, not including position players. Next year could be more of the same. Mena will need to prove himself in the upper levels of the minors, but by midseason, he could be in the mix for long relief. His growing versatility, in particular his comfortability as an opener, would also come in handy. At the very least, Mena’s success takes some of the heat off former second rounder Zander Mueth, who has had an abysmal time with Glendale.

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