EXCLUSIVE: Pittsburgh Pirates Head Coach Derek Shelton Unveils Draft List of New Players Ahead of 2025 Season

**EXCLUSIVE: Pittsburgh Pirates Head Coach Derek Shelton Unveils Draft List of New Players Ahead of 2025 Season**

In an exclusive announcement today, Pittsburgh Pirates head coach Derek Shelton has revealed the list of new players the team is targeting in preparation for the 2025 season. The carefully curated draft list signals the Pirates’ ongoing efforts to build a competitive roster, focused on rejuvenating their lineup and bolstering key positions as they look to make a significant impact in the coming years.

Sources close to the organization have confirmed that Shelton, alongside the Pirates’ front office, has been working diligently over the past several months to identify top talent in the upcoming draft and free agency. The list includes a mix of promising young prospects, as well as a few established players expected to bring veteran leadership to the team.

“This list reflects our commitment to building a team that can compete at a high level in 2025 and beyond,” Shelton said in a statement. “We’ve focused on bringing in a balance of talent—players who can help us both immediately and in the long term. We’re excited about the direction we’re heading and believe these moves will position us to contend in the near future.”

The draft list, which is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, features a combination of players in positions of need, including pitching, outfield, and infield. As the Pirates continue to rebuild and develop their farm system, the team’s strategy is to mix seasoned talent with high-ceiling prospects to maximize their chances of success.

One key area of focus for the Pirates is improving their starting rotation, which has been a point of concern in recent seasons. Shelton and the front office have been scouting a number of highly touted pitchers, aiming to add depth and reliability to the pitching staff. Additionally, the Pirates are targeting versatile hitters who can contribute both offensively and defensively, helping to strengthen the lineup.

Pirates fans have been eagerly awaiting news of the team’s plans for 2025, and this draft list serves as a clear indication that the organization is serious about returning to playoff contention. The team’s recent emphasis on developing young talent through their farm system is beginning to pay dividends, and these new additions are expected to complement the Pirates’ rising stars.

“Our goal is to create a sustainable model for success,” Shelton continued. “This isn’t just about the next season; it’s about the future of the Pittsburgh Pirates. We want to ensure that we’re building something special that lasts.”

While details of the specific players on the list remain under wraps, sources suggest that the Pirates are closely monitoring several up-and-coming talents who have impressed in both college and minor league play. The team is also looking at potential free agents who could bring immediate impact and leadership to the roster.

As the 2025 season draws closer, the Pirates’ draft and player acquisition strategy will be a major storyline to follow. With a renewed sense of purpose and an exciting mix of new talent, the Pittsburgh Pirates are poised for a transformative season ahead. Fans are hopeful that the combination of strategic planning, new faces, and rising stars will help the team take the next step toward returning to prominence in Major League Baseball.