Pittsburgh Pirates Target Big West Pitcher of the Year in MLB Draft

The Pittsburgh Pirates are set to select the Big West Pitcher of the Year at fifth overall in the 2026 MLB Draft.

Pittsburgh has a 41-40 record, standing 10th in the National League, after winning 5-1 against the Seattle Mariners on June 25.

What is the draft prediction?

Analyst Jonathan Mayo of MLB.com predicts the Pirates will take UC Santa Barbara right-hander Jackson Flora.

Flora is the reigning Big West Pitcher of the Year, with a 12-0 record and 1.06 ERA in 16 starts this season.

Why is Flora a top pick?

Flora's impressive stats make him a top choice for the Pirates, who are looking to build their pitching roster.

In three seasons at UC Santa Barbara, Flora went 21-5 with a 2.49 ERA in 52 games, including 31 starts.

What comes next for the Pirates?

The 2026 MLB Draft is set for July 11 and 12 in Philadelphia, during the MLB All-Star break.

The Pirates are hoping to reach the playoffs and improve their standing, currently on a W2 streak.

Pittsburgh's rotation could be bolstered by Flora's addition, with Seth Hernandez also on his way up.

The Pirates' prospect pool will benefit from the new addition, as they aim to make a playoff push.