3 Pirates prospects who made great first impressions in 2024

Hunter Barco

The Pirates took Hunter Barco in the second round of the 2022 draft. The lefty out of the University of Florida had a strong final season in college that was hindered by Tommy John surgery. The Pirates signed Barco to a $1,525,000 million signing bonus, which came in under slot value.

Barco would eventually return to action in the second half of 2023, pitching in a reduced role, and going at least four innings in just one of his nine appearances. For what it was worth, it was a promising small sample size of 18.1 innings where he had a 3.44 ERA, 1.79 FIP, and 1.25 WHIP, didn't allow a home run, and struck out over a third of his opponents (35.9%) with a strong 7.7% walk rate.

After revving up in 2023, Barco returned to a more steady role this season and produced some strong results. He had a 3.27 ERA, 3.29 FIP, and 1.06 WHIP through 66 innings of work. The southpaw walked 8.3% of opponents with an 0.68 HR/9, but struck out just over 30% of batters with a 31.8% K%. Barco allowed fly balls at a rate under 30% (29.8%) while inducing grounders at a 46.4% rate. Barco was shut down in August and September, but the numbers he did post were very promising.

Barco flashed better velocity in 2024, sitting 92-94 MPH with his sinker. His four-seamer had similar velocity with more horizontal movement. His low-80s slider looked like an above average pitch, and his splitter looked like a fourth offering with average-to-above-average potential. With good command and a deceptive motion on the mound, Barco’s first extended look went very well.