Today is the deadline for teams to sign players from their 2023 MLB Draft class. The Pittsburgh Pirates have recently signed 18th rounder Kalae Harrison, a shortstop from NC State. They also added undrafted free agent Noah Takacs. The additions give the Pirates 20 of their 21 draft picks signed, plus two undrafted players. The lone holdout is 17th round prep third baseman Daniel Cuvet, who has a commitment to Miami.
At this point, the Pirates could give Cuvet the $312,400 remaining in their bonus pool, plus the $150,000 maximum for picks after the 10th round. That would give him a bonus of $462,400, without the Pirates facing a fine.
They could sign him for a maximum of $1,271,685 without losing a draft pick, though they would spend a 75% fine on their overage. That also doesn’t include college money. If the Pirates used their remaining money, including the tax for the overage, Cuvet would cost over $2 million total. At this stage, his addition would command the second most money in the draft, even if his maximum bonus would rank fourth.
Teams have until 4 PM CT to sign any remaining picks. Here is info on Harrison.
18th Round: Kalae Harrison, SS, NC State
Age: 21 | DOB: 6/5/02 | HT: 5′ 11″ | WT: 188 | B/T: L/R
Scouting Report
Harrison batted .313/.436/.426 in 195 at-bats with NC State last year. He shows excellent plate patience, with more walks (37) than strikeouts (28). His power is extra bases from a line drive stroke. An average hit tool and below-average running round out his offense. He grades as an average fielder up the middle, with good movement and glove work. His arm is fringe, which would move him to second base long-term.
Undrafted: Noah Takacs, RHP, Sacramento State
Age: 21 | DOB: 4/9/02 | HT: 6′ 3″ | WT: 220 | B/T: L/R
The Pirates added Takacs as an undrafted free agent, after he made three starts with Sacramento State in 2023. During that time, Takacs allowed a 3.00 ERA in 15 innings, with a 17:3 K/BB ratio. He was shut down with an injury after those three starts.
The Draft Pick Signing Tracker has been updated with the moves.
