The 2026 Major League Baseball draft concluded with the Pittsburgh Pirates reaching into the fifth spot to claim Derek Curiel, a standout outfielder who spent the last two seasons at LSU. The selection marks the culmination of a college career that has already etched his name into the Tigers’ record books.
A Legacy Forged in Baton Rouge
Curiel’s time in Baton Rouge was defined by a rapid ascent that began with a freshman season that saw him hit .345, drive in 56 runs and launch seven home runs while earning Freshman of the Year honors. He followed that with a sophomore campaign that produced a 43‑game on‑base streak, 13 stolen bases and a .975 on‑base plus slugging percentage, numbers that helped the team capture a championship ring.
Beyond raw statistics, Curiel’s defensive brilliance earned him the Golden Glove Award, making him the sixth player in LSU history to receive the accolade. His walk‑up song, accompanied by a flashlight ceremony that lit up the stadium, became a rallying point for fans and underscored the electric atmosphere surrounding his games.
Now, as the Pirates look to inject fresh talent into their farm system, the organization hopes Curiel’s blend of power, speed and poise can translate into immediate impact at the professional level. General manager Ben Cherington praised the player’s work ethic, noting that the team sees a long‑term piece that fits neatly into their rebuilding timeline.
The move also signals a continued partnership between LSU and the Pirates, with LSU Tigers head coach Jay Johnson expressing confidence that his former player will thrive under the Pirates’ development staff. “Derek has always been a competitor,” Johnson said, “and I’m excited to see how he grows in the next chapter.”