Esmerlyn Valdez

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Pittsburgh Pirates #22 prospect in 2025
  BA Grade/Risk: 45/High
  
  Track Record: When the Pirates signed Valdez out of the Dominican Republic in 2021, he was an aggressive hitter with swing-and-miss concerns and a likely future in a corner. That profile has largely held true in pro ball. He slugged 22 home runs with Low-A Bradenton in 2024 but hit just .226 with a 30.6% strikeout rate. He’s shown improved bat-to-ball skills in 2025 with High-A Greensboro, cutting down on whiffs and launching 14 homers through his first 44 games.
  
  Scouting Report: The Pirates credited Valdez’s improved contact rates in 2025 to an offseason swing adjustment that lowered his attack angle and kept his barrel in the zone a bit longer. While he still misses plenty, his 72.8% contact rate through late May was a meaningful step forward from earlier in his career. He has immense raw power, with the bat speed and physical strength to muscle mistakes to his pull side even if he’s caught out in front. Early in the season, his 90th percentile exit velocity ranked among the highest in Pittsburgh’s system, comparable with the likes of Konnor Griffin and Axiel Plaz, although Valdez is two years older. Defensively, Valdez offers limited value. He’s spent time at both outfield corners and first base but profiles best as a bat-first contributor.
  
  The Future: Given Greensboro’s hitter-friendly environment, it’s fair to look at Valdez’s breakout a bit skeptically, though the underlying markers suggest his power will play anywhere if the contact gains hold. He could force his way to Double-A Altoona if he keeps this up.
  
  Scouting Grades: Hit: 40 | Power: 60 | Run: 40 | Field: 40 | Arm: 50.