Tom Verducci

I think he'll be a star, but I don't think he's going to be one because that's what he's seeking.

I think his play is going to drive everything.

Um, they got a good one here and I give them credit because that was a draft where some teams passed on him because he had an offer from LSU and he wanted over slot money.

And there were some teams that were making offers and say, Hey, if you take this, you know, we'll draft you.

And he and his dad said, no, you know, we have a certain price and the pirates who have not been a team known for doing this stepped up to the plate.

I think it was the number nine pick.

And said, we're taking them and we'll work out a contract.

They didn't even have a deal pre-made.

So I give the Pirates credit.

They identified the right guy to have as a franchise player.

And that's not something historically they've done easily.