This forgotten slugging prospect could make serious noise at Pirates spring training

The Pittsburgh Pirates are entering the 2026 season with every intention of winning, and the team's activity this offseason has largely supported that. There's still more work to be done, however.

At PiratesFest last month, general manager Ben Cherington laid out his to-do list for the remainder of the offseason, and he has yet to execute on any of those points, despite pitchers and catchers reporting to spring training this week. One such player Cherington is targeting is an upgrade to the left side of the infield.

The best-case scenario for the Pirates is that the starters on the left side of the infield on opening day feature an external addition at third base and superstar prospect Konnor Griffin at shortstop. If one of those doesn't come to fruition, then Jared Triolo can slot in at that spot. If neither happens, things could get interesting. In that event, keep an eye on Jack Brannigan.

Jack Brannigan has a chance to make an impact for the Pirates this spring

Brannigan was the Pirates' third-round pick in 2022 after a successful three-year stint at Notre Dame. But he's coming off of his worst season as a professional. He got off to a slow start in his first taste of Double-A ball, hitting just .225 with a .687 OPS in 59 games before a torn labrum wound up putting an end to his season entirely.

Brannigan displayed multiple potential plus tools in the 2023 and 2024 seasons, which he spent between Low-A Bradenton and High-A Greensboro. In 164 games, he showed off his power (37 home runs), speed (36 stolen bases in 42 attempts), and an exceptional eye at the plate (13% walk rate). He's a capable defender at both third base and shortstop and also boasts a 70-grade arm (he was a two-way player at Notre Dame).

While last year was clearly a down year, Brannigan is healthy now after undergoing shoulder surgery last summer, and he has a chance to accelerate his development with a strong spring.

Despite his struggles last season, Brannigan was added to the 40-man roster this offseason to protect him in the Rule 5 Draft. This indicates two things—the Pirates believe in his talent, and they think he can impact the major league team relatively soon. He's a bit on the older side for a prospect (he'll turn 25 in March), but that could lead to the team being more aggressive with him at the upper levels to start the season.

That starts with Brannigan having a strong spring, and while he's far from the top story of camp, he's a player to keep an eye on once games start.