Derek Curiel, a 21‑year‑old right‑handed pitcher out of Louisiana State University, has officially become part of the Pittsburgh Pirates organization after being selected fifth overall in the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft. The news was first reported by MLB Pipeline and quickly spread through the baseball community.
The Pirates announced that Curiel has agreed to an underslot contract worth $6.2 million, a figure that saves the club more than $2 million against the slot value assigned to the fifth pick. The deal reflects the team’s strategy of extracting maximum value from high‑profile selections.
A Coach’s Endorsement
LSU head coach Jay Johnson praised the youngster for his self‑awareness and his ability to perform under pressure, noting that Curiel’s maturity should translate quickly to the professional level. Johnson highlighted the pitcher’s work ethic and his readiness to embrace the challenges of the majors.
Curiel arrived in Pittsburgh this week, taking time to explore the city’s neighborhoods and meet with members of the front office as he prepares to report to spring training. The move marks a personal milestone for the 21‑year‑old, who grew up watching the Pirates from afar.
A Continuing Trend of First‑Round Success
The Pirates have enjoyed a three‑year run of selecting players in the first round who have signed below slot, a strategy that has allowed the club to allocate resources toward other talent. Curiel joins a pipeline that has already produced prospects such as Paul Skenes, Griffin and Seth Hernandez, all of whom are expected to make significant impacts.
With the organization’s recent draft performance and the financial flexibility gained from Curiel’s deal, the Pirates are positioning themselves to remain competitive in the National League Central. The front office believes the young pitcher can become the next cornerstone piece in a roster that is already brimming with talent.