Quinn Priester: A Rising Star in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ Organization

Quinn Priester, a name increasingly familiar to baseball enthusiasts, represents a promising future for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Selected 18th overall in the 2019 MLB Draft out of Cary-Grove High School in Illinois, Priester quickly became one of the organization’s top pitching prospects. His journey through the minor leagues has been marked by consistent development, showcasing his potential to become a valuable asset at the major league level.

Priester’s arsenal is built around a four-seam fastball that typically sits in the low to mid-90s, demonstrating good velocity and movement. He complements this with a curveball that boasts significant depth and break, making it a potent weapon against both left-handed and right-handed hitters. A slider, which is still under development, adds another dimension to his repertoire, providing a sharper, horizontal breaking pitch. Rounding out his offerings is a changeup, designed to disrupt hitters’ timing and generate weak contact. While each pitch has shown flashes of brilliance, consistent command and control have been areas of focus in his development.

Priester’s minor league career has been a steady climb through the Pirates’ system. He’s spent time at various levels, including Low-A Bradenton, High-A Greensboro, and Double-A Altoona. Each promotion presented new challenges, forcing him to adapt his approach and refine his skills. He consistently posted solid numbers, showcasing his ability to generate strikeouts and limit walks, demonstrating an increasing maturity on the mound.

Beyond his physical talent, Priester is known for his strong work ethic and dedication to improvement. He’s often praised by coaches and scouts for his willingness to learn and implement adjustments to his mechanics and pitch selection. This dedication, coupled with his natural ability, makes him a prime candidate for continued growth and success in the majors. The Pirates organization has invested heavily in his development, providing him with the resources and mentorship necessary to reach his full potential.

While expectations are high, it’s important to remember that player development is a process. Priester will continue to face hurdles as he transitions to the highest level of competition. Continued improvement in his command, especially with his secondary pitches, will be crucial for his long-term success. However, his talent, dedication, and the Pirates’ commitment to his development suggest a bright future for Quinn Priester. He is poised to become a key member of the Pirates’ pitching staff for years to come, potentially solidifying himself as a cornerstone of their rebuild and a source of excitement for fans in Pittsburgh.