Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training Roster Cuts
The Pittsburgh Pirates have made significant roster moves during Spring Training by reassigning right-handed pitcher Bubba Chandler and left-handed pitcher Hunter Barco to the minor league camp. This decision has reduced the big-league camp to 62 players, marking a strategic shift in the team’s lineup.
Bubba Chandler’s Journey
Bubba Chandler, a standout from North Oconee High School in Bogart, Ga., has demonstrated exceptional talent across multiple sports, including basketball, golf, football, and baseball. Initially committed to Georgia for baseball, Chandler later chose to pursue opportunities at Clemson, engaging in both football and baseball programs. His impressive senior season at North Oconee showcased his prowess on the field, leading to his selection by the Pirates as the No. 72 overall pick in the Third Round of the 2021 MLB Draft.
Chandler’s transition to professional baseball saw him excel with the Rookie-Level Florida Complex Pirates before earning a promotion to the Bradenton Marauders in the Single-A Florida State League. Notably, his focus on pitching in the 2023 season revealed his true potential, culminating in a successful stint with the Greensboro Grasshoppers in High-A and a brief yet impactful appearance with the Altoona Curve in Double-A.
In 2024, Chandler’s performance continued to impress as he maintained a solid record with the Altoona Curve, showcasing his pitching finesse with a 3.70 ERA and remarkable stats across various categories. His subsequent promotion to Triple-A with the Indianapolis Indians further solidified his status as a top prospect within the Pirates system, earning recognition as the top-rated prospect by MLB Pipeline and ranking 15th across all minor league players.
Hunter Barco’s Rise
Hailing from The Bolles School in Jacksonville, Fla., Hunter Barco’s exceptional high school career set the stage for his professional journey in baseball. With an impressive record and standout performances, Barco’s talent was evident early on. His collegiate years at Florida further honed his skills, leading to his selection by the Pirates as the No. 44 overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft.
Barco’s signing with the Pirates for a $1.5 million deal marked a significant investment in his potential, reflecting the team’s confidence in his abilities. His progression through the minor league ranks, from the Florida Complex League Pirates to the Bradenton Marauders and Greensboro at High-A, showcased his growth and adaptability as a pitcher. A promotion to Double-A with Altoona further underscored his promising trajectory within the Pirates organization.
As the No. 7 rated player in the Pirates’ minor league system, according to MLB Pipeline, Barco’s talent and dedication position him as a player to watch in the upcoming season. His continued development and contributions are set to play a vital role in the Pirates’ future success.
