Reevaluating Ben Cherington's first Pirates draft four years later

Tough circumstances. Solid work.

Tampa Bay Rays v Pittsburgh Pirates
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Competitive Balance A: Carmen Mlodzinski

With the next pick in the draft, Cherington selected Carmen Mlodzinski from South Carolina. Mlodzinski was originally a starter, but after struggling a ton in Altoona, the team decided to make him a reliever, which has worked out greatly for Pittsburgh.

Mlodzinski was Cherington's first draft pick to make his MLB debut in 2023. He quickly joined the Pirates and had a very good rookie season. Mlodzinski posted a 2.25 earned run average with a 1.28 WHIP and 34 strikeouts. Opponents batted just .214 against him, but he allowed a decent amount of walks.

This season, Mlodzinski has reestablished himself in a high-leverage role in the bullpen. He got off to a rough start, but after throwing multiple outings as an opener, Mlodzinski has found his groove. Through 19 appearances, Mlodzinski has a 3.42 earned run average in 26.1 innings pitched and has struck out 23 batters. Opponents are batting .229 against him, but his WHIP has decreased to 1.18.

The first Cherington draft pick to make the majors for the Pirates has been impressive and has solidified himself a spot in this bullpen.

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