Pittsburgh Pirates: Three Hitting Prospects that Must be Better in 2024

Similarly, Gorski was a second-round pick by the Pirates in 2019 after a strong college career at Indiana University. He seemed poised to push for a major league role relatively quickly given his well-rounded toolkit. Gorski brings good speed, athleticism, and defensive ability as a potential starting center fielder.

The Pirates hoped he could match that with impact potential at the plate. However, through 108 games this season divided between Double-A and Triple-A, Gorski has struggled to consistently produce, batting just .231 with a .291 on-base percentage. He has flashed some of his power and speed tools, hitting 16 home runs and stealing 18 bases. But Gorski has not shown the plate discipline and contact ability the Pirates were hoping to see. With his athletic profile, Gorski still has time at age 25 to put everything together before he hits his peak. But his lackluster 2023 offensive performance has raised legitimate concerns about his hit tool and ability to translate physical gifts into production.

For Gorski to become the starting player that Pittsburgh envisioned with his growth in 2022, he needs to take major steps forward as a hitter and table-setter at the top of the order. The rest of this season and 2024 will be critical developmental periods for Gorski to make strides at the plate, improve his pitch recognition, and prove himself ready for an everyday role in the major leagues.