Seth Hernandez's Potential Shines Ahead of Professional Debut with the Pirates
The Pittsburgh Pirates made a strategic move in the 2025 draft, selecting right-handed pitcher Seth Hernandez with the sixth overall pick. Despite not stretching him during the draft, Hernandez showcased his talent during instructional league play in the Dominican Republic, leaving a lasting impression on Pirates farm director Michael Chernow.
Chernow was impressed by Hernandez's explosive delivery, noting, 'You see the ball out of the hand, it's absolutely explosive.' This raw power, evident in his triple-digit speeds, is a testament to his potential. Hernandez's repertoire includes four pitches, but his changeup is his signature move.
Chernow highlighted Hernandez's exceptional feel for his changeup, explaining, 'His understanding of why the pitch moves and how to adjust finger pressure is remarkable for his age.' This mastery of the changeup is a significant advantage, especially for low-level hitters who haven't encountered such a high-quality pitch before. Hernandez's ability to mix in three other pitches further enhances his versatility.
Chernow praised Hernandez's overall performance, stating, 'All his pitches look great coming out of the hand. He throws with intent, which is above the age group's expectations.' Despite his advanced skills, Hernandez is still transitioning from high school, and Chernow acknowledges the challenges he'll face. However, his current strengths position him well for future development.
Chernow emphasizes, 'His future in the big leagues will differ from his current form. Changes and adjustments will be made, with both punches and counter-punches. His strong foundation will enable him to evolve from a higher baseline.' Hernandez's journey from high school to the professional ranks promises an exciting future, leaving fans eager to see his growth and success.
