Pittsburgh Pirates Prospects That Could Be Promoted Next

Jared Triolo

Jared Triolo has silently flown under the radar for years now. The utility man has consistently done well through the minor leagues. Going into the 2023 season, Triolo had three consecutive seasons with a wRC+ of at least 110, a walk rate of 8.5% or greater, and a strikeout rate under 20%. Triolo opened the year on the injured list, but he has done well since returning.

In only 159 plate appearances, Triolo is slashing .306/.409/.433 with a .389 wOBA and 121 wRC+. Although Triolo has so far kept up his 110+ wRC+ streak, his strikeout rate is abnormally high. He’s gone down on strike three 26.4% of the time. But he’s continued to walk at a strong rate at 15.1%. His .127 isolated slugging percentage is below average, but power has never been his strongest suit. Plus, he also showed little power in the first half of 2022 before ending the season on a high note when it came to power-hitting.

Triolo’s bat has always played well, but his defense is his calling card. He’s the Pirates’ best infield prospect when it comes to fielding. Triolo’s primary position is the third base, where he’s been nothing short of outstanding. However, he’s seen an increasing amount of time at shortstop, where he’s successfully been able to carry that defensive prowess over. Last season, he saw a few games in center field and got some work on the right side of the infield in Spring Training (granted, he only has one game at the keystone and none at first base yet).

Triolo was Rule 5 eligible going into last off-season, and the Pirates opted to protect him by adding him to the 40-man roster. Because of that, Triolo could very well be the next guy the Pirates promote. Given that Triolo is also versatile, the Pirates would be able to find playing time for the infielder.