Pirates Linked to Georgia Tech Slugger as Potential First-Round Pick

Drew Burress, a power-hitting outfielder, could be a great fit for Pittsburgh's farm system.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Pittsburgh Pirates, who have been focused on building up their farm system in recent years, are reportedly considering drafting Georgia Tech slugger Drew Burress with their fifth overall pick in the upcoming MLB draft. Burress, a right-handed hitting outfielder, has put up impressive power numbers during his college career, slugging 44 home runs over his first two seasons. Despite his smaller 5'9" frame, Burress is viewed as having legitimate 60-grade power and the ability to play a corner outfield spot.

Why it matters

The Pirates have had success in recent years developing top prospects like pitcher Paul Skenes and outfielder Konnor Griffin, so adding another high-upside bat like Burress could further strengthen their pipeline of young talent. Burress' combination of power and on-base skills make him an intriguing option for the Pirates, who will be looking to add impact bats to complement their pitching depth.

The details

Burress is hitting .344/.487/.590 with 10 extra-base hits in 15 games so far this season for Georgia Tech. His .490 on-base percentage and 19.1% walk rate during his college career suggest he has a well-rounded offensive skillset beyond just his power. While his smaller stature may raise some questions, Burress' ability to play a corner outfield spot could make him an ideal fit for the Pirates' roster needs.

  • The 2026 MLB Draft is scheduled for June.
  • The Pirates hold the 5th overall pick in the 2026 draft.

The players

Drew Burress

A power-hitting outfielder from Georgia Tech who is considered a potential first-round pick in the upcoming MLB draft.

Paul Skenes

A top pitching prospect in the Pirates' farm system who has already won a Cy Young Award.

Konnor Griffin

The top overall prospect in baseball, currently in the Pirates' minor league system.

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What they’re saying

“Burress slugged 44 home runs during his first two years at Georgia Tech, and he is hitting .344/.487/.590 with 10 extra-base hits in 15 games this season. Despite an undersized 5"9' frame, he has legitimate 60-grade power and still fits cleanly at a corner outfield spot if he is unable to stick in center. His .490 on-base percentage and 19.1 walk rate during his time on campus give him one of the highest floors in the class.”

— Joel Reuter, Bleacher Report Writer (Bleacher Report)

What’s next

The Pirates will evaluate Burress and other top draft prospects over the next few months leading up to the 2026 MLB Draft in June.

The takeaway

The Pirates' focus on building up their farm system through the draft has paid dividends, and adding a high-upside bat like Drew Burress could further strengthen their pipeline of young talent. Burress' combination of power and on-base skills make him an intriguing option for Pittsburgh as they look to complement their pitching depth with impact bats.