Pirates Catcher Henry Davis' Swing Transformation Paying Off in 2024

The 2021 No. 1 overall draft pick has made significant improvements to his approach at the plate and defensive skills.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:04pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball player in various overlapping geometric perspectives, capturing the dynamic motion and energy of the sport.Henry Davis' swing transformation has elevated his game, showcasing the power of adaptability in baseball.Today in Pittsburgh

Henry Davis, the Pittsburgh Pirates' catcher, has undergone a remarkable transformation in his swing and approach at the plate. After making key adjustments during the offseason, Davis has seen a decrease in his strikeout rate and an increase in his ability to hit to all fields while maintaining his pull-side power. This evolution in his game has impressed the Pirates organization, with manager Don Kelly and hitting coach Matt Hague praising Davis' work ethic, self-awareness, and potential to reach his full potential in 2026.

Why it matters

Davis' story is a testament to the power of adaptability and growth in professional sports. His willingness to embrace change and improve his swing mechanics has positioned him as one of the most promising young catchers in the MLB, with the Pirates organization and fans eagerly anticipating his continued development and success.

The details

Davis, the 2021 No. 1 overall draft pick, has made significant strides in reducing his strikeout rate and improving his ability to hit to all fields. His body positioning has also improved, allowing him to maintain his pull-side power while also going the opposite way when needed. These changes in his approach have been noted by Pirates manager Don Kelly, who cited Davis' ability to hit the ball to right-center field as a key to his success.

  • Henry Davis was the Pittsburgh Pirates' No. 1 overall draft pick in 2021.
  • Davis made significant swing changes during the 2023-2024 offseason.
  • Davis' improved performance and swing transformation have been observed in the 2024 MLB season.

The players

Henry Davis

The Pittsburgh Pirates' catcher and the 2021 No. 1 overall draft pick, who has undergone a remarkable transformation in his swing and approach at the plate.

Don Kelly

The manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who has praised Davis' ability to hit the ball to right-center field as a key to his success.

Matt Hague

The Pittsburgh Pirates' hitting coach, who has highlighted Davis' work ethic and self-awareness as crucial traits for his continued improvement.

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What they’re saying

“I'm encouraged with some good workdays. Trying to be prepared and let the preparation kind flow when I'm out there.”

— Henry Davis

“It's being able to hit even hit the [area between second and first] and stay on baseballs, which I think is the better approach for him.”

— Don Kelly, Pirates Manager

“He's shown glimpses... He's probably one of the hardest workers on the team at just getting after it, the awareness of himself.”

— Matt Hague, Pirates Hitting Coach

What’s next

The Pirates organization and fans will continue to closely monitor Davis' progress and development throughout the 2024 season, with high expectations for him to reach his full potential in 2026.

The takeaway

Henry Davis' story is a testament to the power of adaptability and growth in professional sports. His willingness to embrace change and improve his swing mechanics has positioned him as one of the most promising young catchers in the MLB, with the Pirates organization and fans eagerly anticipating his continued development and success.