Who are you most excited to see in a Pirates’ uniform?
On this edition of the Pirates Prospect Update series we take a look at outfielder, Tres Gonzalez, who is currently in double-a.
A standout at Georgia Tech for his hitting savvy, the Pirates drafted Gonzalez in the fifth round of the 2022 draft. Immediately upon making his debut with Bradenton, it was clear his skills at the plate would translate to the professional ranks as he was hitting .325 before quickly finding himself being promoted to High-A Greensboro. The organization was looking for Gonzalez to continue to develop his power at the next level.
Draft profiles site Gonzalez as having a pretty high floor, because of his outstanding bat-to-ball skills that he’s possessed since his days in high school. His ability to hit for contact, while also being willing to see pitches and take walks makes him an above average hitter for any squad. A good eye at the plate also means he doesn’t strikeout a lot, which is one of his best qualities that has stuck with him in his career.
RBI Single by OF Tres Gonzalez @AltoonaCurve #LetsGoBucs pic.twitter.com/bPv5CDZgee
— Pittsburgh Pirates Player Development Report (@PGHplayerDev) July 6, 2024
The power hasn’t come to fruition yet however, as he is generating average exit velocity on a majority of his hits. Though, his ability to get on base, paired with his sneaky good base running should see him be able to contribute regardless offensively.
Though he is quick, he does lack the speed typical of a big league center fielder, and that will likely not be where he gets a majority of his reps. Left or right suits him better at this point, as he is just not athletic enough to hold his own in the middle of the outfield. Projected as a platoon player in the outfield, the work Gonzalez does with the bat is how he’s gotten this far and it is certainly his meal ticket.
Tres Gonzalez is currently the 25th ranked Pirates prospect.