Pittsburgh Pirates Draft: Examining Where Mitch Jebb Fits in the Farm System

Where could shortstop Mitch Jebb, the 42nd overall pick in the draft, fit into the Pittsburgh Pirates farm system?

After selecting Paul Skenes no. 1 overall in the draft on Sunday night the Pittsburgh Pirates picked next at no. 42 overall. With that no. 42 overall pick the Pirates selected shortstop Mitch Jebb out of Michigan State University.

In three seasons in East Lansing the left-handed hitting Jebb hit for a .327/.413/.464 slash line. Jebb hit 7 home runs, 35 doubles, and 12 triples with the Spartans. He capped his collegiate career off with a .337/.438/.495 slash line in 241 plate appearances as a senior.

What really put Jebb on the map was his performance in the Cape Cod League last year. Jebb hit for a .356/.429/.490 slash line with 13 extra base hits and just 24 strikeouts in 171 Cape Cod League PAs. This came on the heels of a .356/.448/.511 sophomore season at Michigan State.

Where does Jebb fit in the farm system?

Jebb's swing is not the prettiest one you will ever see. However, he consistently makes contact and hits line drives. His power is more gap-to-gap power than home run power. MLB Pipeline gives Jebb's power a 40 grade, but his hitting tool has a 60 grade.

Projecting Jebb's long-term outlook with the organization is tricky to do. The Pirate farm system has plenty of infield depth and options, but Jebb still projects as a quality hitter who could get on base a lot professionally.

If Jebb signs quickly, he is a player you could see playing with Low-A Bradenton soon. If Jebb gets to Bradenton soon and hits the ball well he could set himself up to start next season with High-A Greensboro, or at least be in position to not have to spend much time with Bradenton in 2024.

It's also unlikely that Jebb's long-term home is at shortstop. His long-term role is likely as a utiltiy player who bounces around the field.