The Pittsburgh Pirates went very pitcher heavy in the 2022 draft, especially on the college side of things. While quite a few made an appearance or two in the complex league, only Mike Walsh and Cy Nielson made it to Bradenton by the end of the season.
While he may end up being the last pitcher to debut, second round pick Hunter Barco certainly has the potential to be the best from their most recent draft class.
One of the best pitchers in the nation entering his draft year, the lefty from Florida was off to a great start before an injury and eventual Tommy John surgery ended his season.
Up to that point, Barco was making a strong case to eventually be one of the first college pitchers taken in the draft. In nine starts last year, the lefty had a 5-2 record, 2.50 ERA, and struck out 69 batters (11 walks ) in 50.1 innings pitched.
He made quite the impact in his time with Florida, finishing among the school leaders in winning percentage, K/9, and opponent’s average.
When healthy, Barco features a fastball, slider, and changeup, with the latter two generally considered as at the very least above average.
With him getting Tommy John last May, it’s difficult to project when we could see Barco in 2023, or if we see much of him at all.
If we do see him, it will likely be with restrictions. There is a video of him throwing off of flat ground for the first time in December at Pirates City, so that at least is encouraging.
Although his impact this season may be minimal to none at all, there was talk that he was working his way into the conversation as being a first round pick before the injury. If he can return to that level of player, Barco could turn out to being a huge steal for the Pirates.
Highlight of the Day
Pirates Prospects Daily
By Tim Williams
**Missed yesterday? Anthony looked at infielder Maikol Escotto, who was acquired in the Jameson Taillon trade.
Song of the Day
Pirates Prospects Weekly
Check out Ethan Hullihen’s breakdown of what happens when a player gets designated for assignment.
We’ll have the latest article drop hitting the site Tuesday afternoon.
