Pirates Pipeline Earns Sweep Of Weekly Awards As Prospects Shine

The Pittsburgh Pirates farm system showed its depth last week with a sweep of awards across two levels.

Outfielder Esmerlyn Valdez powered his way to Eastern League Player of the Week after a dominant stretch at Double-A Altoona. The 21-year-old slugger connected for four home runs, drove in nine runs and posted a .444 average during a series against Harrisburg. His hot streak included homers in three straight games, plus his third multi-homer effort of the season.

Valdez has reached base in 34 of 41 games since his promotion and batted over .300 in August, continuing to build on a breakout campaign that has already produced 26 long balls.

Valdez was not the only Curve player honored. Right-hander Wilber Dotel earned Eastern League Pitcher of the Week after two near-flawless outings.

The 24-year-old allowed only two hits across 10 ⅔ innings while striking out nine. He has been a workhorse for Altoona this season, leading the league in starts and ranking among the leaders in strikeouts and innings pitched. His August line included a 2.60 ERA and 29 strikeouts, numbers that underscore how valuable he has been for the Pirates’ system.

Further south, High-A Greensboro’s Carlson Reed picked up South Atlantic League Pitcher of the Week by fanning 10 over six shutout innings against Wilmington. The outing was a reminder of his talent, even in a season that has been uneven. His ERA sits above four, but his most recent start offered a glimpse at a late turnaround.

Three players, three awards. One strong statement about the Pirates’ future.

More MLB: Pirates Unveil Special Tribute To Groundbreaking Championship Lineup