3 Pittsburgh Pirates prospects who could break onto Top 100 prospect lists

Top 100 prospect status is a title many players likely strive for. Not only does it mean they are one of the most talented players in the minor leagues, but now with the prospect promotion incentive, it gives them a better opportunity to open the year on their club’s Opening Day roster.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have plenty of young talent, but many of these potential stars have yet to accrue many reps, and are just now getting an extended look. Plus, many new draft picks have yet to play an inning in pro ball. In a few years, some of these young minor leaguers could find themselves as part of "Top 100 Prospect" lists compiled by experts across baseball.

3 Pirates prospects with 'Top 100' potential

Jhonny Severino

One of the top prospects the Pirates received at the 2023 trade deadline was infielder Jhonny Severino. He was sent to Pittsburgh in a one-for-one deal for veteran first baseman Carlos Santana. Severino has looked very good in his first extended look as a pro ballplayer. He is only 19 and at A-Ball, where he is crushing opposing pitchers.

Between A-Ball and the Florida Complex League, Severino has made 283 plate appearances. He has batted .289/.367/.537 with a .417 wOBA and 140 wRC+. He has only struck out 17.3% of the time with a solid 11.3% walk rate. Severino is known for his power potential, and he’s put that on display so far with a .248 isolated slugging percentage and a dozen dingers.

Severino’s time at Bradenton has been extremely promising. He has an .858 OPS, .397 wOBA, and 141 wRC+ since getting promoted to the Marauders, but the most promising aspect of his game is his 20.3% whiff rate. Severino has struggled to make contact consistently in the past, so seeing a whiff rate hovering around 20% is very good.

Severino is a 6’2”, 185-pound infielder. He has split his time almost evenly between shortstop and third base. His arm is above average, which will play on the left side of the infield. He’s shown to at least project as an average defensive shortstop, but given he is already considered a fringy runner, he may have to move to the hot corner full time. Severino’s best tool is his power potential. 

Hopefully, Severino swinging and missing as infrequently as he has this year can continue as he moves up the minor league ladder. If he continues to swing and miss at a similar level, he’ll definitely move up prospect rankings -- and if he can do it in a full season next year while still hitting for power, he may end up on the back end of some top 100 lists.