Beyond the Top 30: Uncovering the Pirates' Hidden Gems in 2026
Earlier this year, Baseball America unveiled their highly anticipated list of the Top 30 Pirates Prospects for 2026. But what about the players who were knocking on the door, just missing the cut? These are the prospects who could surprise us all with breakout seasons or carve out future MLB careers. Today, we're diving deeper into the Pirates' farm system to spotlight the next 10 players you need to know. (For a complete list of players who just missed their teams' respective Top 30s, check out Baseball America's comprehensive index.)
31. Johan De Los Santos, SS (http://www.baseballamerica.com/players/1557299-johan-de-los-santos/)
The younger brother of Pirates shortstop Yordany De Los Santos, Johan made waves by signing the largest bonus ($2.25 million) in the Pirates' 2025 international class. Despite his smaller frame (165 pounds), Johan showcased impressive bat-to-ball skills and speed during his pro debut in the Dominican Summer League. His above-average defensive potential at shortstop, coupled with a high baseball IQ, could fast-track him to Low-A Bradenton. But here's where it gets interesting: can a player of his size consistently produce at higher levels? Only time will tell.
32. Ryan Harbin, RHP (http://www.baseballamerica.com/players/18442-ryan-harbin/)
Harbin's 2025 campaign was a tale of two extremes: a staggering 31.9% strikeout rate paired with a concerning 16% walk rate across three levels. The Pirates saw enough potential to add him to their 40-man roster. Standing at 6-foot-4, 195 pounds, Harbin's upper-90s fastball (touching 101 mph) and devastating upper-80s sweeper with over a foot of break make him a late-inning threat. However, his ability to harness his command will determine whether he becomes a bullpen staple in Pittsburgh as early as 2026.
33. Carlson Reed, RHP (https://www.baseballamerica.com/players/19209-carlson-reed/)
A back injury derailed Reed's 2025 season, causing him to lose 1-2 mph off his fastballs compared to his stellar 2024 performance (1.99 ERA across Class A levels). When healthy, Reed's low-90s sinker, low-80s sweeper, and changeup all generate above-average whiff rates. Yet, his inconsistent command raises questions about his role—starter or reliever? And this is the part most people miss: Reed's health and consistency will be the deciding factors in his MLB future.
34. Connor Wietgrefe, LHP (https://www.baseballamerica.com/players/737494-connor-wietgrefe/)
Drafted in the seventh round in 2024, Wietgrefe impressed with a 3.17 ERA and a 21.7% strikeout rate across 108 High-A innings in 2025. His athletic pitchability and deep repertoire—including two low-90s fastballs and three distinct slider shapes—make him a crafty lefty. However, his lack of elite velocity or a true plus pitch may limit his ceiling. The Pirates are banking on offseason strength gains to unlock more power in his arsenal.
35. Callan Moss, 1B (https://www.baseballamerica.com/players/740219-michael-callan-moss/)
Moss, a former Seton Hall standout who transferred to Division II before signing with the Royals as an undrafted free agent, found himself in Pittsburgh after a trade with Kansas City. In 2025, he slashed .287/.384/.457 with 13 homers and a 140 wRC+ in High-A. While his defense at first base leaves room for improvement, his above-average exit velocities and disciplined approach at the plate have caught the Pirates' attention. Can he continue to hit his way up the ladder?
36. Brandan Bidois, RHP (http://www.baseballamerica.com/players/355234-brandan-bidois/)
At one point in 2025, Bidois went 18 innings across Double-A and Triple-A without allowing a hit—an astonishing feat. The Australian reliever boasts a mid-90s fastball with nearly 21 inches of induced vertical break and a mid-80s slider that batters missed 40% of the time. After being added to the Pirates' 40-man roster, he's poised to contribute to their bullpen in 2026. But here's the controversial question: is he a future closer, or will his two-pitch mix limit his upside?
37. Richard Ramirez, C (https://www.baseballamerica.com/players/1528838-richard-ramirez/)
Ramirez, a physically imposing catcher at 6-foot, 243 pounds, possesses plus raw power and a strong arm behind the plate. However, his aggressive swing leads to high strikeout rates and limited barrel adjustability. If he can refine his approach, Ramirez could become a valuable part-time catcher with defensive prowess and bench power. The big question remains: can he make the necessary adjustments to thrive at the MLB level?
38. Jhonny Severino, 3B (https://www.baseballamerica.com/players/20821-jhonny-severino/)
After a breakout 2024, Severino struggled in his return to Low-A Bradenton, battling aggressiveness and spin recognition while retooling his swing. Despite these setbacks, his above-average power potential and strong arm remain intriguing. Could a move to left field be in his future? His ability to improve contact skills will be the key to unlocking his potential.
39. Anthony Solometo, LHP (http://www.baseballamerica.com/players/8674-anthony-solometo/)
Once on the verge of cracking the Top 100 Prospects list, Solometo has thrown just 81 innings since 2021 due to mechanical issues and injuries, including a left shoulder labrum tear in 2025. When healthy, his distinctive delivery and above-average extension provide notable deception. But with his velocity fluctuating and injuries mounting, can Solometo regain his former promise? This is the part most people miss: his health and consistency will define his career trajectory.
40. Irwin Ramirez, RHP (https://www.baseballamerica.com/players/1345072-irwin-ramirez/)
Signed out of the Dominican Republic for $450,000 in 2024, Ramirez made his stateside debut in 2025, showcasing a projectable 6-foot-3 frame and a mid-90s sinker that touches 99 mph. His low-to-mid-80s slider and upper-80s changeup both flash potential, but his feel for these pitches remains raw. While his strike-throwing needs refinement, his size and arm talent make him a high-upside project. The Pirates are dreaming big, but will Ramirez develop into a frontline starter or settle into a bullpen role?
Final Thoughts: These 10 prospects represent the depth and potential within the Pirates' farm system. While some face significant challenges, others are on the cusp of breaking through. Which of these players do you think will surprise us in 2026? And which ones might fall short of expectations? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
