# Pirates Staying Cautious with Top 2026 Draft Pick

> Pirates delay Derek Curiel's debut to focus on physical readiness for 2027.
- Title: Pirates Staying Cautious with Top 2026 Draft Pick | Shortify
- Summary: Pirates delay Derek Curiel's debut to focus on physical readiness for 2027. Pirates will not debut Derek Curiel in 2026 to prepare him physically for 2027.
- Keywords: pittsburgh pirates, derek curiel, mlb draft, 2026 draft, 2027, physical readiness, offseason preparation, sports, Pirates, Staying, Cautious, Top
- Source: Pittsburgh Pirates On SI — https://si.com/mlb/pirates/onsi/pittsburgh-pirates-cautious-top-2026-draft-pick-derek-curiel
- Published: 2026-10-26T14:00:02+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: pittsburgh pirates, derek curiel, mlb draft, 2026 draft, 2027, physical readiness, offseason preparation, sports
## Pirates Draft Pick
The Pittsburgh Pirates took LSU outfielder Derek Curiel with the fifth overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft.
## Curiel's 2026 Status
Curiel never made his professional debut this season despite a strong LSU season.
## Why Delayed?
The Pirates wanted to focus on Curiel's physical readiness for 2027 instead of 2026.
## Physical Concerns
Curiel had physical issues during the pre-draft process requiring rehab continuation.
## Pirates' Plan
The Pirates will begin Curiel's offseason preparation earlier to build professional habits.
## Curiel's Stats
Curiel hit .349/.452/.522 with 171 hits, 38 doubles, 13 home runs, and 16 stolen bases.
## 2025 College Success
Curiel played both left and center field, helping LSU win the 2025 College World Series.
## Pirates' View
Pirates farm director Michael Chernow called Curiel a max-effort player with leadership qualities.
## 2027 Expectations
The Pirates expect Curiel to be ready for spring training in 2027 to impact games.
## Key takeaway

Pirates will not debut Derek Curiel in 2026 to prepare him physically for 2027.